Extrinsic collapse of the left atrium by a large hiatal hernia

Abstract

87 years old male with a history of hypertension and ischemic cardiopathy. He arrives to the Emergency department with sudden intense epigastralgia, precordial oppression with irradiation to the interscapular area, profuse sweating, associated sensation of dyspnoea and palpitations. The patient is monitored and a venous peripheral access is placed. It is remarkable the variable blood pressure measures in the semi-stationary position, both in the upper left limb as in the contralateral limb. In the upper left limb we registrered 220/80 mmHg, followed by 100/50 mmHg and finally 170/95 mmHg. In the upper right limb, blood pressure was 180/40 mmHg and afterwards 120/70 mmHg. Proximal and distal pulses are present and no pulsatile epigastric mass can be found. Given the suspicion of an aortic syndrome, a CT scan with intravenous contrast is performed which shows a large hiatal hernia compromising partially the left atrium and inferior lobar veins (Fig 1-4). The patient is transferred to the observation area, where a nasogastric tube is placed, presenting partial symptomatic improvement, with persistent nausea and vomiting, as well as a tendency to hypertension. After being evaluated by general surgery, it was decided to make an hernia content reduction to the abdominal cavity and posterior fundoplication with residual fundus (Toupet type). There were no perioperative complications. After several days of hospitalization, the patient was referred to his home with no further incidences.