Videothoracoscopic Diagnosis and Treatment of Diaphragmatic Rupture Combined with Splenic Injury

Abstract

Background: Traumatic rupture of the diaphragm is one possible result of blunt injuries to the abdomen and thorax. It frequently occurs as part of associated injuries or polytraumas.

Case Study: A patient with traumatic rupture of the diaphragm and minor splenic injury is presented who was treated by means of videothoracoscopy. Controversial aspects of this approach are discussed.

Conclusion: Early diagnosis of such injuries can sometimes prove very difficult, whereas surgical repair is usually easy. It can be performed using the videothoracoscopic technique, even in the case of associated minor injury to parenchymatous organs treatable via the approach used. This method allows revision of the peritoneal cavity in subdiaphragmatic space to exclude a possible major hemoperitoneum.