Diaphragmatic hernia

Understanding Diaphragmatic Hernia in Pets

A diaphragmatic hernia occurs when there is a tear or abnormal opening in the diaphragm—the thin muscle that separates the chest (lungs and heart) from the abdomen (liver, stomach, and intestines). This opening allows abdominal organs to move into the chest cavity, where they compress the lungs and heart, often causing severe breathing difficulties.

There are two primary types:

• Traumatic: Caused by sudden force, such as being hit by a car, falling from a height, or a blunt blow.
• Congenital: Present from birth due to improper development of the muscle.

The Surgical Procedure

Surgery is the only definitive treatment. Once your pet is stabilized—which may involve oxygen therapy and treating shock—a veterinary surgeon typically performs the following steps:

1. Abdominal Incision: An incision is usually made along the midline of the abdomen to access the organs.
2. Organ Repositioning: Displaced organs are gently moved from the chest back into their correct positions in the abdomen.
3. Diaphragm Repair: The tear in the muscle is sutured closed. If organs were trapped for a long time, the surgeon may need to remove damaged tissue.
4. Air/Fluid Removal: A chest tube is often placed to remove excess air or fluid that could prevent the lungs from expanding properly after surgery.

Risks and Complications

While many pets recover fully, the surgery is complex and carries specific risks:

• Re-expansion Pulmonary Edema: A life-threatening condition where fluid fills the lungs as they are reinflated.
• Organ Damage: Trapped organs may lose blood supply (strangulation), leading to tissue death (necrosis) that requires removal.
• Pneumothorax: Trapped air in the chest cavity.
• Anesthetic Risks: Pets with respiratory compromise are at higher risk during general anesthesia.

Post-Operative Care

Recovery typically takes 10 to 14 days for the incision to heal, but full internal recovery can take 6 to 8 weeks.

• Strict Rest: Use a crate or small room for 2–4 weeks to prevent jumping, running, or climbing.
• Incision Monitoring: Check daily for redness, swelling, or discharge. Use Pet Pjs® to prevent licking.
• Medication Management: Administer all prescribed pain relief and antibiotics exactly as directed.
• Diet: Offer small, frequent meals of easily digestible food to avoid putting pressure on the newly repaired diaphragm.