Diaphragmatic herniation after 3 years of penetrating trauma managed through laparotomy: A case report

Abstract

Introduction: Diaphragmatic rupture is an uncommon trauma complication and it is associated with chronic diaphragmatic herniation, especially in the left side. Chronic diaphragmatic herniation is usually due to white weapon injury and as consequence of low suspicious and absence of proper investigation.

Case report: We report a chronic diaphragmatic herniation after three years of a stab in the left thoracoabdominal transition, managed through laparotomy.

Discussion: Traumatic diaphragmatic rupture is a rare trauma consequence, most common in the left side. The herniation occurs gradually because of negative pressure of the thoracic cavity that works as a suction of the abdominal organs.

Conclusion: Traumatic diaphragmatic ruptures diagnosis is difficult and might go unnoticed without high suspicious and proper investigation. Chronic herniation is associated with higher morbimortality.

Keywords: Case report; Chronic herniation; Diaphragmatic rupture; Trauma; Weight loss.