Transternal repair of a giant Morgagni hernia causing cardiac tamponade in a patient with coexisting severe aortic valve stenosis

BACKGROUND: Foramen of Morgagni hernias have traditionally been repaired by laparotomy, lapascopy or even thoracoscopy. However, the trans-sternal approach should be used when these rare hernias coexist with other cardiac surgical diseases. CASE PRESENTATION: We present the case of a 74 year-old symptomatic male with severe aortic valve stenosis and global respiratory failure due to a giant Morgagni hernia causing additionally cardiac tamponade. The patient underwent simultaneous repair of the hernia defect and aortic valve replacement under cardiopulmonary bypass. The hernia was repaired through the sternotomy approach, without opening of its content and during cardiopulmonary reperfusion. CONCLUSIONS: Morgagni hernia can rarely accompany cardiac surgical pathologies. The trans-sternal approach for its management is as effective as other popular reconstructive procedures, unless viscera strangulation and necrosis are suspected. If severe compressive effects to the heart dominate the patient's clinical presentation correction during the cardiopulmonary reperfusion period is mandatory.