Traumatic Rupture of the Diaphragm About 19 Cases

Abstract

Traumatic ruptures of the diaphragm (TRD) are serious lesions that are often part of polytrauma. The diagnosis of wounds and diaphragmatic rupture remains difficult and often delayed. Methods: We conducted a descriptive observational study with retrospective data collection. It took place in two referral hospitals in Algeria. Results: Our study involved 19 cases of diaphragmatic injuries. The sex-ratio was 8.5. The mean age was 29 years. Traffic accident represented 78.95%. The diaphragmatic rupture was on the left side in 84.21 % (16 cases). The surgical procedure involved a reduction of herniated viscera and a suture of the diaphragm by “X” non absorbable points in 73.68 % (15 cases). The evolution was favorable in all patients, except one death. Conclusion: A diaphragmatic rupture is often integrated into a polytrauma, of which it is a criterion of Severity; however the diagnosis may be overlooked in the acute phase because it poses a real diagnostic and therapeutic challenge.