Diaphragmatic and peritoneopericardial diaphragmatic hernias

Abstract

The diaphragm serves as a physical barrier between the pleural and peritoneal cavities. Innervation of the diaphragm is via the phrenic nerve, which arises from the fifth to seventh cervical nerves. Herniation of abdominal contents through the diaphragm may be a result of either a congenital or a traumatic event. Respiratory and cardiac functions are altered after a traumatic diaphragmatic hernia, resulting in reduction of oxygen delivery. Diaphragmatic hernia should always be suspected for a dog or cat following trauma. Thoracic and abdominal radiography is recommended for confirming the diagnosis of a diaphragmatic hernia. Pathogenesis is attributed to a failure of normal development of the septum transversum, the embryologic structure that forms the ventral portion of the diaphragm. The principles of medical stabilization and surgical treatment are similar to those for traumatic diaphragmatic hernias.