Traumatic Diaphragmatic Herniation: Pathophysiology and Management

CE Send comments/questions via email [email protected], fax 800-556-3288, or web CompendiumVet.com In companion animals, acquired diaphragmatic herniation is most frequently the result of motor vehicle accidents involving compressive trauma. Published reports indicate that patients with traumatic diaphragmatic herniation have a guarded prognosis. Respiratory compromise, concurrent injury, and internal hemorrhage with the development of hypovolemic shock are common and potentially life-threatening complications of traumatic diaphragmatic herniation. Normal ventilatory function is achieved only by restoring diaphragmatic integrity; however, the timing of surgical intervention is critical. Clinicians must be aware of complications (e.g., hemothorax, gastric tympany, strangulation of a viscus) that may accompany and compound traumatic diaphragmatic