[Traumatic rupture of the diaphragm. 67 cases]

As a result of improvements in accident prevention, traumatic rupture of the diaphragm is less commonly observed. Young adults are anatomically more exposed to the injury. Beside the classical factors, falls from great heights and direct traumas must be borne in mind as possible causes. Tears in the diaphragm are only dangerous when accompanied by visceral lesions involving the oesophagus, the large vessels, the heart, etc. Only respiratory symptoms are suggestive of a notoriously difficult diagnosis. Ultrasonography appears to be of value. The prognosis depends on associated lesions, which are frequent. The surgical treatment is usually simple, the only problem being the approach. If no complication occurs, sequelae are minimal.