Traumatic Diaphragmatic Hernia with Delayed Presentation in an Adult

Sung, Joon Kyoung; Yun, Sang Seob; Park, Jong Kyung; Choi, Seung Hye; Lee, Seong

Abstract

A diaphragmatic hernia in adult can result from delayed presentation of congenital or traumatic diaphragmatic defect. of all congenital diaphragmatic hernia, 5~25% present beyond the neonatal period. Diaphragmatic injury due to blunt or penetrating truncal trauma is relatively common, and can be missed during immediate posttraumatic period. If the diaphragmatic injury is not recognized at the time of the initial trauma, the patient may recover and remain symptom free, or suffer from chronic nonspecific abdominal and/or chest symptoms. After a variable interval acute symptom associated with intestinal obstruction or strangulation can arise because of a herniation of the abdominal organs through the diaphragmatic defect. A delay in diagnosis may occur and be associated with a high morbidity, so a careful history and examination, are essential for the successful management of patients, as is maintaining an awareness of the possibility of the delayed presentation of traumatic diaphragmatic hernia and its complication. We present a 35-years-old male patient with delayed presenting, traumatic diaphragmatic hernia, and discuss a literature a review.