hiatal hernia

A hiatal hernia results from the extension of the stomach into the chest through the esophageal hiatus. Acquired enlargement of the esophageal hiatus and laxity of the phrenoesophageal ligment are causative factors, often associated with obesity or pregnancy. Hiatal hernia are frequent incidental findings on chest radiographs and CT. On chest radiography, they typically appear as round retrocardiac masses, usually containing air or an air-fluid level. The diagnosis is easily confirmed by a barum esophagogram or CT. CT scans reveal extension of a portion of the proximal stomach into the lower mediastinum, and an abnormally wide esophageal hiatus (Fig ).

Fig: HIATAL HERNIA

Follow-up of breast cancer in an asymptomatic 56-year-old woman. A. Chest radiograph: large retrocardiac mass containing air. B. CT scan: dilated stomach with air-fluid level in the retrocardiac area. CT was performed in prone position for the lung nodule biopsy.