Published online Jul 16, 2022. doi: 10.12998/wjcc.v10.i20.7020
Peer-review started: November 15, 2021
First decision: April 16, 2022
Revised: April 21, 2022
Accepted: May 27, 2022
Article in press: May 27, 2022
Published online: July 16, 2022
Processing time: 231 Days and 19 Hours
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is an effective treatment for early-stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Although RFA is a relatively safe technique compared with surgery, several complications have been reported to be following/accom
An 80-year-old woman with segment VIII HCC was treated twice in 5 years with RFA; 28 mo after the second RFA, the patient complained of right hypochondriac pain. Computed tomography revealed that the small intestine was incarcerated in the right thorax. The patient was diagnosed with diaphragmatic hernia and underwent laparoscopic repair by non-absorbable running sutures. The patient’s postoperative course was favorable, and the patient was discharged on postoperative day 12. The diaphragmatic hernia has not recurred 24 mo after surgery.
Laparoscopic treatment of iatrogenic diaphragmatic hernia is effective and minimally invasive.
Core Tip: Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is an effective treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Delayed diaphragmatic hernia caused by RFA is uncommon; however, the best surgical approach to its treatment has not been determined. Herein, we present a rare case of delayed-onset diaphragmatic hernia due to RFA and its treatment with laparoscopic repair. This case highlights the ultimate importance of that RFA for HCC located close to the diaphragm should be performed using artificial ascites under computed tomography guidance to prevent an injury to the diaphragm. Laparoscopic treatment of iatrogenic diaphragmatic hernia is effective and minimally invasive.