[Recurrence of a hiatal hernia with intrathoracic perforation and respiratory failure during pregnancy].

Abstract

Recurring diaphragmatic hernias severely complicating pregnancy is a rare but potentially fatal condition. Varying symptoms and low incidence often lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment, causing increased morbidity and mortality. We present a case where a 31-year-old pregnant woman developed respiratory failure due to a right mediastinal shift caused by perforation of an incarcerated hiatal hernia, for which she had previously been operated for. Post-operatively, she suffered from vomiting due to gastroparesis, likely caused by damage to the vagus nerve, and needed supplementary nutrition.