Diaphragm Plication: Evaluation and Technique

Diaphragmatic paralysis is an elevation of the diaphragm caused by a lesion along the neuromuscular axis and may be either bilateral or unilateral. Most commonly, paralysis is unilateral and iatrogenic in nature. Symptoms of this disease may be life-limiting, and when conservative measures fail, surgical therapy may be of significant benefit to patients. With the advent of robotic minimally invasive techniques, diaphragm plication can be a useful therapy for patients with resolution of symptoms, reduced length of hospitalization, and quickened recovery. This article provides an overview of the disease, diagnosis, and current therapies including robotic techniques.