Diaphragmatic hernia

A diaphragmatic hernia is a defect in the diaphragm that allows abdominal organs, such as the stomach, spleen, or intestines to be displaced into the chest cavity. A hiatal hernia is a type of diaphragmatic hernia.

People with diaphragmatic hernias may report shortness of breath, difficulty swallowing, or abdominal pain. The diagnosis is made with X-rays or CT scans. The treatment for a diaphragmatic hernia is surgery to replace abdominal organs back in their normal position, and to repair the diaphragm.