Post-traumatic Diaphragmatic Hernias

Abstract

The diaphragm is a dome-like muscular and tendinous septum. It separates the thoracic from the abdominal cavity in a dynamic volumetric fashion. It forms a dome-shaped roof for the abdomen, and provides a musculo-fibrous floor for the thorax. Patients with a missed diagnosis of traumatic diaphragmatic injury may typically not be clinical present for months to even years. Consequently, there is a progressive increase in visceral herniation with obstruction, and occasionally strangulation. Thoracic symptoms are more predominant, with abdominal symptoms tending to be less pronounced, ranging from mild and localized to diffuse abdominal tenderness. Gastrointestinal incarceration and strangulation are the most serious complications of diaphragmatic hernias.