Diaphragm

Abstract

The diaphragm is an essential skeletal muscle separating the abdominal and thoracic cavities, and is vital for the normal development of the abdominal and thoracic viscera. The diaphragm also performs critical functions in respiration and digestion. A variety of congenital diaphragmatic anomalies can occur in the pediatric population as well as neoplastic and traumatic disorders. Ultrasound is best suited for evaluation of the pediatric diaphragm because it allows for dynamic imaging of anatomic and functional abnormalities and is not associated with potentially harmful ionizing radiation exposure. This chapter reviews ultrasound evaluation of the diaphragm in infants and children, beginning with a description of up-to-date imaging techniques, diaphragmatic embryology, and normal anatomy. The remainder of the chapter highlights the ultrasound findings and relevant clinical features of congenital and acquired pediatric diaphragmatic disorders that are encountered in everyday clinical practice.