Traumatic diaphragmatic rupture in pediatric age: review of the literature

F Marzona1, N Parri2, A Nocerino3

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, S. Maria della Misericordia University Hospital, University of Udine, Piazzale S. Maria della Misericordia, 1, 33100, Udine, Italy. federico.marzona@gmail.com.

Insights

Pediatric traumatic diaphragm rupture (TDR) is often missed due to severe injuries. Early diagnosis requires a high clinical suspicion, especially with abdominal or respiratory symptoms following trauma.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Traumatology
  • Thoracic Surgery
  • Emergency Medicine

Background:

  • Traumatic diaphragm rupture (TDR) is a rare pediatric injury, often masked by other severe trauma.
  • Delayed diagnosis of pediatric TDR increases morbidity and mortality rates.
  • Limited reviews exist to guide clinicians on diagnosing pediatric TDR.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the diagnostic challenges and initial approach for pediatric traumatic diaphragm rupture.
  • To highlight the importance of recognizing TDR in pediatric trauma patients.

Main Methods:

  • A comprehensive Medline search was performed for pediatric TDR cases (0-18 years) from January 2000 to December 2014.
  • Citations were reviewed for eligibility, and reliable data were extracted and synthesized.
  • Consensus was used to resolve discrepancies in the data.

Main Results:

  • Respiratory and abdominal symptoms are the most common presentations of pediatric TDR.
  • Chest X-ray (CXR) detected suggestive findings in 85% of cases.
  • CT scans were frequently used to confirm suspected TDR.

Conclusions:

  • A high index of suspicion is crucial for diagnosing and managing pediatric TDR.
  • TDR should be considered in pediatric patients with trauma and abdominal/respiratory symptoms.
  • The rise in non-operative management of blunt abdominal trauma risks overlooking TDR.
Abstract

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