1. Complications of Hiatal Hernias
Krista Fajman, M.D.
September 23, 2009

2. Hiatal Hernias
Herniation of organs of the abdomen into the thoracic cavity through the esophageal hiatus at the diaphragm
Weakening of the diaphragmatic hiatus thought to be caused by repetitive stress of swallowing, abdominal straining, vomiting in addition to contraction of the esophageal longitudinal muscle induced by reflux and acidification of the mucosa.

3. Classification Type I (Sliding Hiatal Hernia)
> 95% of cases, increasing incidence with age
Hiatus widens and phrenoesophageal membrane loosens  gastroesophageal junction and fundus of the stomach displaced above the diaphragm.
Hernia contained within the posterior mediastinum.
Diagnose with barium swallow or endoscopy if > 2 cm. Esophageal manometry can diagnose smaller hernias.

4. Classification continued
Types II, III, IV (Paraesophageal Hernia)
Type II – GE junction fixed. Progressive enlargement of the hiatus
Type III (Mixed Hernia) – Enlargement of the hiatal hernia, displacement of the lower esophageal sphincter and gastric fundus above the diaphragm
Type IV – Associated with herniation of the colon, spleen, pancreas, and small intestine
5-10% of hernias.
Unclear etiology but associated with weakening of the gastrosplenic and gastrocolic ligaments.
Best diagnosed with barium swallow although can usually be seen on endoscopy. CT or MRI helpful if you suspect herniation of organs other than the stomach.

5. Imaging

6. Symptoms May be asymptomatic Reflux
Chest, epigastric or substernal pain
Dysphagia
Postprandial fullness
Nausea, vomiting
Gastritis
Chronic blood loss from gastric ulceration or erosions within the hernia
Respiratory complications

7. Hiatal Hernia Treatment
Repair of asymptomatic type I hernias rarely require surgical repair. If pt has GERD, medical or surgical treatment is indicated to control the reflux.
Types II, III, and IV – Even if asymptomatic, imposes a certain risk on the patient.
Never regress although may enlarge.
Can result in herniation of the stomach or other abdominal organs into the thorax.
If untreated can pose a risk of serious complications.
Nonoperative mortality rate = as high as 80%
Mortality rate from acute gastric volvulus = 15-20%
Mortality rate from chronic gastric volvulus ranges up to 13%
Once identified  treat surgically.

8. Gastroesophageal Reflux
Estimated prevalence of 14-20% in the general population
Diagnose with endoscopy  rule out Barrett’s, adenocarcinoma, ulcers. Also consider H. pylori, manometry
First line treatment – Lifestyle modification, Antacids, H2 blockers and PPIs
Complications of chronic PPI use:
Increased risk of hip fracture in pts > 50 years old
Increased risk of infectious gastroenteritis
Increased risk of C. difficile colitis
Decreased effectiveness of Plavix

9. Treatment for refractory GERD associated with hernias
Consider TCAs in those that do not respond
Fundoplication - the proximal stomach is wrapped around the LES  increased LES pressure.
Surgical risks include frequent need for revision, dysphagia, flatulence, difficulty belching, bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation.
No difference in rates of Barrett’s metaplasia or adenocarcinoma between medical or surgical management.

10. Gastric Volvulus
Uncommon, although most common complication of paraesophageal hernias.
Paraesophageal hernias progressively enlarge  eventually the stomach herniates through the hiatus forming an upside down stomach in the thoracic cavity.
Associated with dysphagia or postprandial pain.
Twisting of up to 180 degrees may cause no obstruction

11. Gastric Volvulus Organoaxial Mesenteric Axis Most common
Associated with diaphragmatic defects
Vascular compromise common
Mesenteric Axis
Chronic symptoms more common
Diaphragmatic defect less common

12. Imaging of Gastric Volvulus

13. References
Ho, M., Maddox, T., Wang, L., Fihn, S., Jesse, R., Peterson, E., Rumsfeld, J. “Risk of Adverse Outcomes Associated with Concomitant Use of Clopidogrel and Proton Pump Inhibitors Following Acute Coronary Syndrome.” JAMA. March 4, :
Kahrilas, P., Talley, N., and Bonis, P. “Hiatus Hernia” UpToDate Online. December 15, 2008
Kahrilas, P. “Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease.” New England Journal of Medicine. Vol 359: October 16, 2008.
Kasper, Braunwald, Fauci, Hauser, Longo and Jameson. Harrison’s Principles of Internal Medicine, 16th Edition.
LearningRadiology.com
Sivaskarin, S., Kawamura, A., Lombardi, D., Nesto, R. “Gastric Volvulus Presenting as an Acute Coronary Syndrome.” Texas Heart Institute Journal ; 33(2):