RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Diaphragmatic injury. A clinical review
JF Saudi Medical Journal
JO Saudi Med J
FD Prince Sultan Military Medical City
SP 890
OP 894
VO 22
IS 10
A1 Maha S. Abdel Hadi
A1 Abdulmohsen A. Al-Mulhim
A1 Naif I. Al-Awad
A1 Hazem M. Zakaria
A1 Majed S. Al-Awami
YR 2001
UL http://smj.org.sa/content/22/10/890.abstract
AB OBJECTIVE: Recent experience at King Fahad Hospital of the University, Al-Khobar University, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was reviewed to identify the pitfalls in the diagnosis of diaphragmatic injuries, and attempt to develop a scheme by which early diagnosis is achieved in order to avoid the sequelae of delayed presentations.METHODS: A retrospective chart review of patients admitted to the surgical service, with the diagnosis of diaphragmatic injury was undertaken during the period June 1994 through to June 1999.RESULTS: The total number was 8 patients, and the age ranged between 6-71 years. Of these patients 5 were diagnosed immediately post-traumatic, 2 with delayed presentation, and one with recurrent post-traumatic repair. This case was excluded. Six patients presented following blunt and one after penetrating trauma. Rupture occurred mainly on the left dome of the diaphragm in 5 patients and on the right in 2. Complications ranged from mild chest symptoms to severe respiratory and multi-system involvement.CONCLUSION: Diaphragmatic injuries occurred in 2%-5% of multiple trauma victims. It is considered a predictor of serious associated injuries, However, as many as 10%-30% are missed during the initial evaluation. A high index of suspicion is required, and judicious use of diagnostic aids should be employed to reach early diagnosis to avoid the sequelae of missed injuries.