Diaphragmatic trauma

Background

  • Associated w/ GSW to lower chest/upper abdomen
    • Rarely a/w blunt trauma
  • If missed can lead to herniation of abd viscera and to a tension enterothorax
  • Most commonly left sided

Clinical Features

  • SOB
  • Diminished breath sounds on side of rupture

Differential Diagnosis

Thoracic Trauma

Diagnosis

  • CT C/A/P w/ contrast
  • Pass OG tube and check if tube curves up from abdomen into the chest
  • Upper GI series (looking for viscera in the chest)

Management

Disposition

  • Admit

See Also

References