Bochdalek Hernia With Gastric Volvulus in an Adult: Common Symptoms for an Original Diagnosis

Bochdalek hernias in adulthood are rare. Symptomatic Bochdalek hernias in adults are rarer, but may lead to fatal complications. Patients with acute gastric volvulus on diaphragmatic hernia are a diagnostic and therapeutic emergency. Here, we report a case of a 56-year-old woman diagnosed with epigastric pain, cough, vomiting since 2 weeks and shortness of breath. Complicated Bochdalek hernia was an incidental finding, diagnosed by chest radiograph, computed tomography (CT), and barium swallow study. Stomach was within the thorax in the left side due to left diaphragmatic hernia of a nontraumatic cause. The patient was prepared for the laparoscopic surgical repair, to close the defect. The patient recovered with accepted general condition and was discharged 9 days later. Diagnoses of Bochdalek hernias in adulthood are challenging. However, although rare, this possibility should be kept in mind to avoid fatal complications.