OBJECTIVE

To propose a physical test to optimize the diagnosis of hiatal hernias.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In the absence of physical symptoms characteristic of hiatal hernia, patients were offered to take 100—150 ml of non-carbonated drinking water. When a sound phenomenon appeared during chest auscultation in the form of a high, quiet, and short sound (rumbling), it was stated as a symptom characteristic of a hiatal hernia. The results were compared with a barium swallow.

RESULTS

During chest auscultation, the sound phenomenon was detected in 96 patients out of 114 (84%). After offering 100—150 ml of non-carbonated drinking water, the symptom was additionally determined in 13 patients out of 114 examined. Thus, the total number of patients with hiatal hernia and auscultation phenomenon amounted to 109. Drinking water increased test sensitivity from 84% to 96%; the specificity was constant 95%.

CONCLUSIONS

This offered test can help early diagnose hiatal hernia at a clinical examination in patients with chest pain syndrome.