Intern Med

. 2024 Feb 1;63(3):447-450.

 doi: 10.2169/internalmedicine.1793-23. Epub 2023 Jun 14. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37316276/

Bochdalek Hernia Causing Sigmoid Colon Strangulation in an Elderly Patient

Yuika Yagishita ^1 2, Yasuhiro Kano ¹, Mikio Takamori ², Mari Tawara ³, Satoru Iwanami ¹, Masaaki Ibe ², Kengo Murata ^1 2, Junko Araki ³, Satoshi Watanuki ¹, Takaie Kuki ¹, Miyako Kitazono ²

Affiliations expand

• PMID: 37316276
• DOI: 10.2169/internalmedicine.1793-23

Free article

Abstract

Diaphragmatic hernia with bowel strangulation is a fatal condition requiring a prompt diagnosis. Bochdalek hernia is a common type of diaphragmatic hernia that rarely but occasionally occurs in adults. We herein report a case of Bochdalek hernia causing sigmoid colon strangulation in an elderly patient whose condition was initially misdiagnosed as empyema. The early diagnosis of strangulated bowel stemming from diaphragmatic hernia can be challenging because of its rarity and the nonspecificity of its symptoms. However, tracing the mesenteric arteries on computed tomography can enable a quick diagnosis.

Keywords: Bochdalek hernia; diaphragmatic hernia; pleural effusion; pseudoempyema; strangulated bowel obstruction.