Acute Gastrointestinal Obstruction: A Late Presentation of Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia - A Case Report

Rachna Raman, Arifuddin Qazi, Anitha J. Kandi, Sarojini P. Jadhav

Abstract: Delayed herniation of abdominal contents through a congenital defect in the diaphragm can lead to a late presentation of congenital diaphragmatic hernia. It can have a varied clinical presentation. This case report describes a 3 - year - old child who presented with features of acute intestinal obstruction secondary to late - presenting CDH. The chest X - ray showed a dilated bowel loop in the left hemithorax with an air fluid level. Operative repair of the diaphragmatic defect was done. The patient made an excellent recovery postoperatively. Late - presenting CDH poses a diagnostic challenge and, therefore, can lead to high morbidity and mortality. This case report therefore aims to increase awareness, allow early diagnosis, and prompt treatment of the condition.

Keywords: Congenital diaphragmatic hernia, late presentation, Bochdalek hernia, Intestinal Obstruction, Surgical repair