Concomitant transsternal repair of a congenital Morgagni hernia and ventricular septal defect in a patient with Down syndrome

Abstract

Congenital Morgagni hernias are uncommon diaphragmatic hernias. Some cases of congenital Morgagni hernias are associated with congenital malformations, including congenital heart defects, chest wall abnormalities, and some chromosomal anomalies. Congenital Morgagni hernias should be treated surgically via transthoracic or transabdominal approach. However, in patients undergoing open heart surgery for congenital heart defects, transsternal exposure and repair can be also used. Herein, we report a case of a ventricular septal defect and congenital Morgagni hernias associated with Down syndrome of which the defects were repaired concomitantly via sternotomy approach.