PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What describes a hiatal hernia?

1. Prolapse of the stomach into the thoracic cavity

2. Esophageal perforation

3. Inversion of the stomach

4. Twisting of the intestine

The correct answer is: Prolapse of the stomach into the thoracic cavity

A hiatal hernia is characterized by the upward displacement of part of the stomach through the diaphragm into the thoracic cavity. This condition typically occurs at the region where the esophagus passes through the diaphragm, creating an anatomical abnormality that allows the stomach to push up into the chest cavity. This can lead to symptoms such as heartburn, regurgitation, or chest pain, as well as possible complications like esophagitis or strictures. The other options do not accurately describe a hiatal hernia. Esophageal perforation refers to a tear in the esophagus, which can lead to serious complications but is distinct from the anatomical displacement of the stomach seen in a hiatal hernia. Inversion of the stomach, known as gastric volvulus, involves abnormal positioning of the stomach itself but does not imply a movement into the thoracic cavity. Twisting of the intestine typically refers to conditions like volvulus, affecting the intestinal tract and not related to the position of the stomach in relation to the diaphragm. Thus, option A represents the correct depiction of a hiatal hernia.