Background: Diaphragmatic hernia is migration of abdominal viscera into the thoracic cavity
through a defect in the diaphragm. In children, it is mostly congenital; traumatic diaphragmatic
hernia being less common. This study aimed to review our experience with traumatic diaphragmatic
rupture (TDR) and to identify the clinical findings and diagnostic modality that may help in early
diagnosis and prompt therapy.
Methods: The study involved 11 children (1–18 years old) with TDR who were hospitalised
between 1993 and 2005. In addition to clinical examination, a plain X-ray of the chest and abdomen,
an ultrasound, barium studies, and a computerised tomography (CT) scan were used to evaluate the
patients.
Results: All of the diaphragmatic ruptures occurred on the left side, with 10 occurring in the
posterolateral part and 1 near the oesophageal hiatus. Two of our patients presented 7 and 10 days
after the injury, and 1 patient presented 1 year after the trauma.
Conclusion: TDR should remain a diagnostic possibility in children. These patients are best
assessed using a CT scan. New research on stem cells and tissue-engineered bioprosthetics may pave
the path for better future therapies in these cases.