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Iatrogenic Diaphragmatic Herniation of Mesenteric Fat

Iatrogenic Diaphragmatic Herniation of Mesenteric Fat▶ Watch on YouTube — age-restricted, cannot embed here

Imaging findings

A patient who underwent extended resection for a left lower lobe process experienced a 'nicked' left hemidiaphragm that was repaired with sutures. Serial imaging showed progressive disruption of the left hemidiaphragm, starting with thinning, then clear disruption, leading to a progressively larger defect. Mesenteric fat was observed herniating through this defect into the lower chest, increasing in volume over time.

Key takeaways

Iatrogenic injury to the diaphragm during thoracic or abdominal surgery, even minor ones, can result in progressive diaphragmatic defects and subsequent herniation of abdominal contents, such as mesenteric fat, into the chest. Progressive imaging changes underscore the importance of recognizing and monitoring such surgical complications.

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