[Diaphragmatic rupture in thoracicabdominal blunt traumatisms]

Area of Science:

• Trauma Surgery
• Thoracic Surgery
• Abdominal Surgery

Background:

• Traumatic diaphragm rupture is a severe injury often resulting from high-impact events.
• Delayed diagnosis can lead to chronic symptoms and complications.
• The left hemidiaphragm is more commonly affected than the right.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review surgical outcomes for traumatic diaphragm rupture.
• To identify common causes, diagnostic methods, and surgical approaches.
• To analyze associated injuries and their impact on mortality.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 20 patients surgically treated for traumatic diaphragm rupture.
• Analysis of clinical history, diagnostic imaging (X-rays), and surgical records.
• Evaluation of surgical approaches and outcomes, including mortality and secondary injuries.

Main Results:

• Automobile accidents were the primary cause of diaphragmatic rupture.
• Diagnosis relied on clinical presentation and X-ray findings.
• Anterior thoracic, abdominal-thoracic, and abdominal approaches were utilized.
• Liver injuries were the most frequent secondary thoracic/abdominal lesions.
• Gastric resection was the most common organ resection.
• Mortality rate was 40% (8/20), with secondary injuries being the main cause of death.

Conclusions:

• Traumatic diaphragm rupture necessitates timely surgical intervention.
• Associated injuries, particularly to the liver, significantly influence patient prognosis.
• Effective management requires a multidisciplinary approach addressing both diaphragmatic and secondary injuries.