Traumatic Diaphragmatic Hernia.

ABSTRACT

Blunt traumatic diaphragmatic ruptures are uncommon yet associated with high mortality. They occur due to blunt or penetrating thoraco-abdominal injury. Diagnosis is often missed, and a high index of suspicion is vital. They may present acutely or delayed as respiratory distress or obstruction. They can be managed through a laparotomy or a thoracotomy and in the present day with minimal access surgery. We report an interesting case of blunt traumatic diaphragmatic hernia in a 48-year-old man presenting after abdomino-thoracic injury due to fall from height. He had herniation of the colon and stomach. Through a left subcostal incision, the herniated organs were reduced, and the diaphragmatic defect closed with prolene suture.