Spontaneous Right-Sided Diaphragmatic Hernia: A Rare Cause of Small Bowel Obstruction

Diaphragmatic hernia (DH) is an uncommon cause of small bowel obstruction (SBO), particularly in the absence of trauma. This rarity can pose a diagnostic challenge, leading to significant delays in treatment and increased morbidity. We report a case of a 79-year-old male patient who presented with acute signs of small bowel obstruction. The patient had no reported history of trauma. Computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen revealed a diaphragmatic hernia causing small bowel obstruction. The patient underwent an initial laparoscopy, which was converted to laparotomy, small bowel resection, and subsequent hernia repair. The patient made a good recovery, and two weeks after his initial presentation, he was discharged home. This case highlights the importance of considering diaphragmatic hernia in differential diagnosis for small bowel obstruction, even in the absence of trauma.