What is a Morgagni (foramen of Morgagni) hydatid (cyst)?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: April 24, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

From the Research

Hydatid of Morgagni, also known as Morgagni hernia, is a rare congenital diaphragmatic hernia that requires surgical treatment once diagnosed, with laparoscopic repair being a safe and effective approach, as shown in a recent study 1. The condition is characterized by an anteromedial subcostosternal defect, allowing abdominal organs to herniate into the thorax, and is often asymptomatic, but can present with respiratory and gastrointestinal complaints.

  • The diagnosis of Morgagni hernia is often delayed due to nonspecific symptoms, but surgical correction is the primary management for both symptomatic and asymptomatic cases, as it prevents the risk of strangulation of herniated contents.
  • Various surgical approaches have been described, including thoracic and abdominal approaches, but laparoscopic repair has gained popularity due to its minimally invasive nature and reduced hospitalization time, as reported in a study 2.
  • The use of mesh repair is common in laparoscopic approaches, with a study showing that bridged mesh repair is effective for larger defects 1.
  • The importance of recognizing hydatids of Morgagni lies in distinguishing them from pathological conditions during imaging studies or surgical procedures to avoid unnecessary interventions, and laparoscopic synthetic mesh repair of adult Morgagni hernias offers an effective hernia repair with minimal complications and no detected recurrences in long-term follow-up, as shown in a recent study 1. Some key points to consider in the management of Morgagni hernia include:
  • The need for surgical treatment once diagnosed, regardless of symptoms
  • The use of laparoscopic repair as a safe and effective approach
  • The importance of mesh repair for larger defects
  • The need for long-term follow-up to monitor for recurrences
  • The importance of distinguishing Morgagni hernia from other pathological conditions during imaging studies or surgical procedures.

References

Research

Technique and Outcomes in Laparoscopic Repair of Morgagni Hernia in Adults.

Journal of laparoendoscopic & advanced surgical techniques. Part A, 2021

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.