Laparoscopic Diaphragmatic Repair: A Single-center Experience

Abstract

Background: With the ongoing advances in the field of laparoscopy, more and more of diaphragmatic repairs are being performed laparoscopically. All forms of diaphragmatic pathologies, such as congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) including diaphragmatic eventration, hiatus hernia as well as traumatic diaphragmatic rupture, can be well performed through laparoscopy. Laparoscopic repair along with the advantage of improved vision and accessibility can also avoid large incisions, thereby reducing morbidity and long hospital stay, due to pain and lung complications, with early return to work. Materials and methods: A total of five cases underwent laparoscopic diaphragmatic repair at our center in 1 year duration. All cases were followed up with immediate postoperative and quarterly chest X-rays. Results: None required conversion to open. Diaphragm was reconstructed and reinforced with mesh. None had any postoperative complications. Follow-up postoperative chest X-rays were unremarkable. Conclusion: Laparoscopic diaphragmatic hernia repair is a feasible, acceptable, affordable, superior, and safe alternative to open repair with better short-term postoperative outcomes and a recurrence rate similar to the open approach.