Pulmonary hernia: Case report and review of the literature

Spontaneous pulmonary herniation in post-polio syndrome

Pulmonary hernias are typically a result of trauma, thoracic operations, or congenital defects. Spontaneous lung hernias without a prior overt injury are notably rare. The presence of spontaneous lung hernias has not been reported in post-polio syndrome. Post-polio syndrome is a late sequela of poliomyelitis that usually presents 30-40 years after the initial illness with new presentations of progressive muscle weakness, abnormal muscle fatigue, muscle atrophy, and myalgia. This case report describes the presentation and imaging of a post-polio patient with an atraumatic, spontaneous lung hernia. A discussion on pulmonary hernias, diagnostic imaging, and management is also included.

B-lines beyond the thoracic cavity - ultrasound identification of intercostal pulmonary hernia

Intercostal pulmonary hernia is a rare condition that may present to the emergency department spontaneously, following blunt trauma or as a complication of thoracic surgery. With the evolution of minimally invasive thoracic surgery pulmonary hernia may become more common. In this case of postoperative chest pain, incisional swelling, and shortness of breath, we present the ultrasound characteristics of a postoperative intercostal pulmonary hernia and its resemblance to subcutaneous emphysema.