Laparoscopic Repair of Diaphragmatic Hernia

Why is the procedure done?

It is a minimally invasive surgery done to repair the hole in the diaphragm that causes the abdominal organs to pass into the chest cavity, giving rise to various life threatening complications. It is a congenital defect detected in infants requiring immediate surgery.

How is the procedure done?

• An incision is made in the upper abdomen below the ribs after which the abdominal organs are gently pulled down through the opening in the diaphragm and positioned into the abdominal cavity.
• The hole in the diaphragm is repaired and the incision is stitched closed.
•  A temporary tube is placed through an incision into the chest to allow air, blood, and fluid to drain so the lung can re-expand.