Delayed presentation of traumatic diaphragmatic hernia

More than 111 patients with traumatic diaphragmatic hernia (TDH) were treated in a 5 1/2-year period; eight (7.2%) were first recognized more than 30 days postinjury. All were men, and their average age was 33.4 years. Seven injuries were on the left side; one was on the right side. The mechanism of injury was equally divided between penetrating and blunt trauma. Chest roentgenographic abnormalities were seen in all patients. Visceral reduction and diaphragmatic repair, despite strangulation in four patients, was accomplished without mortality and with minimal morbidity. Delayed presentation of TDH is reviewed, emphasizing diagnostic features encountered in the emergency department (ED).