Left-Sided Bochdalek Hernia with Gastric Volvulus and Intrathoracic Kidney in a 21-Year-Old Male: A Case Report

Authors

  • Aneesh Kakkatt Department of Radiology, Blackpool Victoria Hospital, Blackpool, FY3 8NR
  • Shahana Aneesh Department of Radiology, Blackpool Victoria Hospital, Blackpool, FY3 8NR

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.3941/jrcr.6009

Abstract

A 21-year-old male presented with sudden-onset left upper quadrant abdominal pain radiating to the chest, associated with shortness of breath. He had a history of intermittent abdominal bloating and fullness for 3–4 years. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography revealed a large left-sided posterolateral diaphragmatic defect (Bochdalek hernia) containing the stomach, spleen, and left kidney. The stomach was distended and twisted (organo-axial gastric volvulus) with surrounding inflammatory changes. Emergency surgery was performed, involving reduction of herniated contents, detorsion of the stomach, and mesh repair of the diaphragmatic defect. The intrathoracic kidney was left in situ due to normal perfusion. The patient recovered fully. This case highlights the importance of prompt imaging and surgical intervention in adult Bochdalek hernias presenting with acute complications.

21-year-old male with left-sided Bochdalek hernia. FINDINGS: axial contrast enhanced scan showing herniated spleen and left kidney in the thorax. TECHNIQUE: Contrast-enhanced CT chest and abdomen; portal venous phases; [100kVp, 101mAs, 3mm slice thickness].

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Published

2026-04-13

Issue

2026: Articles in Press

Section

Thoracic Radiology

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