Laparoscopic repair of diaphragmatic hernia.

A laparoscopic diaphragmatic hernia repair was done using a left subcostal trocar insertion with a total of three ports. The laparoscopic technique was illustrated. Chest x-rays pre-op and post-op were taken. The material used in the repair was 0-Chromic sutures and expanded PTFE patch. The hospital stay was minimal (24h). The patient symptomatology was improved almost immediately. The use of a laparoscopic approach for accessible diaphragmatic hernias is the method of choice. The use of an expanded PTFE patch (with its properties to incorporate the diaphragm) adds strength to the remaining diaphragm.