Congenital Bochdalek hernia in the adult: repair by a primary thoracotomy incision

Background Congenital Bochdalek hernia may present in the adult and requires repair. There is still some controversy regarding the optimal approach for repair. Material and methods We present 6 adult cases with Bochdalek hernia. All 6 underwent a primary thoracic repair. Results The exposure and access was adequate in all cases. Vascular adhesions with the pleura which were easily dealt with were seen in all. No additional abdominal incision was required in 2 cases, and was a mini-laparotomy in 2 cases and a mid line laparotomy in 2. Conclusions Adult Bochdalek hernia in the adult can be repaired with a primary thoracic incision.