Open AccessPeri-operative course of peritonitis following tube thoracostomy: A misdiagnosed case of congenital diaphragmatic hernia
Author(s) -
Ashu Sara Mathai,
Madhurita Singh
Publication year - 2011
Publication title -
al-banǧ. maqālāt wa abḥāṯ fī al-taẖdīr wa-al-in’āš
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 0259-1162
DOI - 10.4103/0259-1162.84181
Subject(s) - thoracostomy , medicine , hydropneumothorax , diaphragmatic hernia , surgery , pneumothorax , hernia , perforation , chest tube , bochdalek hernia , decompression , general surgery , diaphragmatic breathing , congenital diaphragmatic hernia , punching , materials science , alternative medicine , pathology , metallurgy , pregnancy , fetus , genetics , biology
A young adult presented with signs of peritonitis following tube thoracostomy for suspected acute hydropneumothorax. Attempted decompression of the chest by tube thoracostomy had caused gastric perforation, and on surgical exploration, he was found to have a congenital diaphragmatic hernia with herniation of the stomach, spleen and colon. All intensive care doctors and emergency room physicians dealing with the care of patients with acute respiratory failure should be taught to recognize and keep the possibility of a Bochdalek hernia in mind, especially in young adults presenting with unusual respiratory and gastrointestinal symptoms.