An effective plication technique for diaphragmatic eventration under thoracoscopy with laparoscopic image display.

Diaphragmatic eventration causes respiratory distress with the development of severe diaphragmatic compression of lung volume. While non-surgical treatment, such as physical therapy and pulmonary rehabilitation, is adequate for mild cases, surgical intervention is critical for severe diaphragmatic eventration. A 45-year-old man with respiratory fatigue was diagnosed with left diaphragmatic eventration and underwent surgery with diaphragmatic plication with double-row stapling under a video-assisted approach. Thoracoscopy with laparoscopic image display avoided visceral tissue involvement, and the double-stapling technique prevented diaphragmatic rupture and lowered the diaphragmatic level. The procedure improved the patient's respiratory function by reducing respiratory fatigue. This procedure is safe and effective for the thin and vulnerable diaphragmatic muscle.