What is the Altemeier procedure?

The Altemeier procedure is a surgical technique used to repair large diaphragmatic hernias. It involves the direct closure of the hernia defect using interrupted or continuous sutures. Alternatively, synthetic prosthetic mesh can be used to reinforce the closure of the diaphragmatic defect. The procedure is named after the German surgeon, Walter Altemeier, who first described the technique in 1948.