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Hiatal Hernia

Sanjiv chopra, MBBS. MACP and Laura C> Horton, MD Reviewed 06/2022
 


BASICS

The herniation or superior dislocation of abdominal organs or portions thereof through the esophageal hiatus of the diaphragm into the thoracic cavity. 

DESCRIPTION

  • Hiatal hernias can be divided ...

DIAGNOSIS

HISTORY

  • All types

    • Often asymptomatic

    • Gastroesophageal reflux (heartburn, regurgitation, dysphagia)

    • Iron-deficiency anemia if Cameron lesions present

  • Paraesophageal (types II-IV) ...

TREATMENT

GENERAL MEASURES

  • Weight loss

  • For reflux symptoms:

    • Avoidance of trigger foods

    • Elevate head of bed elevation >30 degrees at night, avoid eating within 2 hours of bedtime

    • Smaller mea...

ONGOING CARE

FOLLOW-UP RECOMMENDATIONS

  • Ensure follow up with surgery for elective repair of symptomatic paraesophageal hernias (assuming no acute complication) if patient is a suitable candidate.

  • Repair...

ADDITIONAL READING

Laxague F, Sadava EE, Herbella F, et al. When should we use mesh in laparoscopic hiatal hernia repair? A systematic review. Dis Esophagus. 2020Dec18;doaa125. On...

CODES

ICD10

  • K44.1 Diaphragmatic hernia with gangrene

  • K44 Diaphragmatic hernia

  • Q40.1 Congenital hiatus hernia

  • K44.0 Diaphragmatic hernia with obstruction, without gangrene

  • K44.9 Diaphragmatic hernia without...

CLINICAL PEARLS

  • Asymptomatic hiatal hernias may not require any specific treatment.

  • Hiatal hernias are often incidentally noted on imaging.

  • Confirm intact esophageal motility by manometry before conside...

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