ABSTRACT
Objective To explore the early diagnosis and optimum operative approach of traumatic diaphragma rupture (TDR) . Methods The clinical dada of 23 patients with TDR admitted to our hospital in recent 10 years were retrospectively analyzed. Results The diagnosis of TDR was made before operation in 12 cases1 (52.2%), and intraoperation in 8 (34.8), and misdiagnosed in 3 cases (13.1%). All the 23 patients underwent operation. Of the 23 patients, the operation was performed via thorax approach in 12 patients , via abdominal approach in 8, and via thorax-abdominal approach in 3. Hernation of the abdominal viscera into the thorax was observed in 18 cases, and single TDR in 5 cases.Empyema occurred after operation in 2 patients. 3 cases(13.1%) dead of hypovolemic shock and multiple organs failure. Conclusions The diagnosis of TDR may be difficult. The key of the diagnosis of TDR is to think of it. Once the diagnosis is made or suspected, the operation should be taken as early as possible. The choice of operative approach should be according to the injury mechanism and location; the choice of the operative procedure should be according to the intraoperative findings.