Rupture of the diaphragm caused by blunt trauma.

Our experience with 27 patients who sustained traumatic laceration of the diaphragm caused by blunt forces is described. Automobile accident were the most frequent cause of rupture and young adult males the most vulnerable. The left hemidiaphragm is most frequently injured, but with sufficient force significant tears in the right hemidiaphragm will occur. Most of these patients sustained injury to multiple organ systems. The preoperative diagnosis of traumatic diaphragmatic hernia is based on a high index of suspicion, close and continued observation of the patient, and correct interpretation of roentgenograms of the chest. The mortality rate is high, owing to the magnitude of the injuries.