paraösophagialen

Paraösophageal is a term used in medicine, particularly in gastroenterology and surgery, to describe a condition related to the esophagus. It refers to the presence of a hiatal hernia where a portion of the stomach protrudes through the diaphragm alongside the esophagus, rather than directly in front of it. This is in contrast to a paraesophageal hernia, which is often referred to as a type II hiatal hernia. In this type of hernia, the gastroesophageal junction remains in its normal anatomical position.

The main concern with paraesophageal hernias is the potential for complications. Unlike sliding hiatal hernias, where the stomach slides up and down, paraesophageal hernias involve a more fixed displacement of the stomach. This can lead to symptoms such as dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and sometimes even strangulation or ischemia of the herniated stomach. Due to these risks, surgical repair is often recommended for paraesophageal hernias, even in asymptomatic individuals.

The diagnosis of a paraesophageal hernia is typically made through imaging studies like a barium swallow or an upper endoscopy. Treatment strategies depend on the presence and severity of symptoms, as well as the risk of complications. Laparoscopic surgery is a common approach for repair, aiming to reduce the hernia and reinforce the diaphragmatic opening.