Peritoneopericardial Diaphragmatic Hernia (PPDH)

PPDH (Peritoneopericardial Diaphragmatic Hernia) is a congenital defect in which the abdominal organs (such as the liver, gallbladder, small intestines, or omentum) pass through a gap in the diaphragm and into the pericardial sac — the membrane surrounding the heart.

Present from birth (not traumatic).

Found most commonly in cats, especially long-haired breeds (Maine Coons, Persians), but also in dogs (Weimaraners, Cocker Spaniels, Schnauzers).

Some animals show no signs for years, while others develop breathing issues, GI signs, or heart compression.

Surgery is the treatment of choice for any moderate or symptomatic case; elective repair is often recommended even in asymptomatic pets to prevent life-threatening complications later.