Diaphragmatic hernia in elective thoracic surgery

AIM: To clarify the indications for reconstructive surgery in patients with diaphragmatic hernia. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospective trial has included 36 patients with diaphragmatic hernia for the period 1963-2017. There were 23 (63.9%) women and 13 (36.1%) men. The majority of patients (83%) underwent surgery at able-bodied age (18-60 years). 27 (75%) patients had hernia of weak diaphragmatic zones, 9 (25%) - posttraumatic hernia. Diaphragm repair was performed with primary suture. In 2 cases of posttraumatic hernia mesh endoprosthesis was used. RESULTS: All patients were discharged. Postoperative complications arose in 4 (11.1%) patients, including 2 cases of mesh endoprosthesis deployment. Long-term outcome was followed-up in 15 patients from 6 months to 17 years. Recurrent hernia was absent in all cases. CONCLUSION: Primary suture is acceptable for diaphragmatic hernia repair. Alloplastic repair is indicated for large defect, when primary suture is impossible or risk of its failure is high.