[Surgical Principals of the Diaphragm]

Due to its importance as a central respiratory muscle as well as a separating layer between the thorax and abdomen, the functional integrity of the diaphragm is crucial in any case of surgical intervention. High demands are placed on surgical interventions regarding the functional integrity of the diaphragm. The aim of surgery may even be an improvement in the functional status of the patient. The surgery of the diaphragm is performed according to the same basic principles, regardless of the indication and the extent of the surgery. One of the most important principles concerns the suturing of the diaphragm. Regardless of whether it is a large or small defect, a tension-free suture is always required to prevent a secondary rupture or tearing of the suture and thus of the diaphragm. If necessary, a non-resorbable patch should be used to achieve a stress-free reconstruction. Because of the high physiological stress on the suture, the use of a non-resorbable suture with a high tear strength is recommended. Due to the position of the diaphragm between the thorax and the abdomen, a multidisciplinary surgical team may be necessary in surgical interventions depending on the state of the disease or the involvement of abdominal or thoracic organs.