The "dependent viscera" sign in CT diagnosis of blunt traumatic diaphragmatic rupture

Rare Diaphragmatic Hernias in Adults-Experience of a Tertiary Center in Esophageal Surgery and Narrative Review of the Literature

A rare entity of non-hiatal type transdiaphragmatic hernias, which must be clearly differentiated from paraoesophageal hernias, are the phrenic defects that bear the generic name of congenital hernias-Bochdalek hernia and Larey-Morgagni hernia, respectively. The etiological substrate is relatively simple: the presence of preformed anatomical openings, which either do or do not enable transit from the thoracic region to the abdominal region or, most often, vice versa, from the abdomen to the thorax, of various visceral elements (spleen, liver, stomach, colon, pancreas, etc.). Apart from the congenital origin, a somewhat rarer group is described, representing about 1-7% of the total: an acquired variant of the traumatic type, frequently through a contusive type mechanism, which produces diaphragmatic strains/ruptures. Apparently, the symptomatology is heterogeneous, being dependent on the location of the hernia, the dimensions of the defect, which abdominal viscera is involved through the hernial opening, its degree of migration, and whether there are volvulation/ischemia/obstruction phenomena. Often, its clinical appearance is modest, mainly incidental discoveries, the majority being digestive manifestations. Severe digestive complications such as strangulation, volvus, and perforation are rare and are accompanied by severe shock, suddenly appearing after several non-specific digestive prodromes. Diagnosis combines imaging evaluations (plain radiology, contrast, CT) with endoscopic ones. Surgical treatment is recommended regardless of the side on which the diaphragmatic defect is located or the secondary symptoms due to potential complications. The approach options are thoracic, abdominal or combined thoracoabdominal approach, and classic or minimally invasive. Most often, selection of the type of approach should be made taking into account two elements: the size of the defect, assessed by CT, and the presence of major complications. Any hiatal defect that is larger than 5 cm2 (the hiatal hernia surface (HSA)) has a formal recommendation of mesh reinforcement. The recurrence rate is not negligible, and statistical data show that the period of the first postoperative year is prime for recurrence, being directly proportional to the size of the defect. As a result, in patients who were required to use mesh, the recurrence rate is somewhere between 27 and 41% (!), while for cases with primary suture, i.e., with a modest diaphragmatic defect, this is approx. 4%.

The silent threat: A retrospective study of right-sided traumatic diaphragmatic hernias in a university hospital

Objectives

In hospital attendance, 75% of diaphragmatic hernias occur on left as opposed to 25% on the right side. Right side hernias are associated with abdominal injuries, mainly the liver. However, right-side injuries are frequently underdiagnosed due to the complexity of associated injuries and high mortality rates. The aim of this study was to perform a retrospective analysis of records from our clinical experience to investigate demographics, TM, diagnosis, morbidity, and mortality associated with right sided TDH. These findings may provide insights into improving the clinical management of patients with this serious injury, potentially reducing morbidity and mortality rates.

Material and Methods

Retrospective analysis of the medical records of patients from the trauma database of the Division of Trauma Surgery at University of Campinas in 32-year period was performed. Only records of patients with right sided TDH were included in the analysis.

Results

Blunt trauma was the most common mechanism. Diagnoses were made by laparotomy in eight cases, all these cases were hemodynamically unstable. TDH grade III injury occurred in most cases followed by grade IV. Liver injuries were present in almost all cases, most of them high grade, followed by colon and small bowel. Extra-abdominal associated injuries with a predominance of femur fractures, pelvic fractures and hemothorax. Post-operative complications were associated with length of stay in intensive care unit. Pneumonia was the most frequent complication. The overall mortality rate was 16%.

Conclusion

Most diagnoses were performed through laparotomy and not by radiologic exams, due to hemodynamic instability on admission. There is underdiagnosis of right-side TDH due to the high-energy trauma mechanism with high grade associated injuries and mortality on pre-hospital.

Current trends in the diagnosis and management of traumatic diaphragmatic injuries: A systematic review and a diagnostic accuracy meta-analysis of blunt trauma

BACKGROUND

Traumatic diaphragmatic injuries (TDI) are wounds or ruptures of the diaphragm due to thoraco-abdominal trauma. Nowadays, CT-scan is considered the gold standard for TDI diagnosis. The aim of this study was to assess the current diagnostic accuracy of CT-scan in the diagnosis of TDI and describe the management of this type of injury.

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted according to the 2009 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Two independent reviewers searched the literature in a systematic fashion using online databases, including Medline, Scopus, Embase, and Google Scholar. Human studies investigating the diagnosis and the following management of TDI were included. Pooled estimates of sensitivity, specificity, and positive/negative likelihood (with corresponding 95% confidence intervals) were analyzed based on the bivariate model for blunt TDI. The Newcastle-Ottawa scale for cohort studies was used for the quality assessment of selected articles. The PROSPERO registration number was as follows: CRD42022301282.

RESULTS

Fifteen studies published between 2001 and 2019 were included. All included studies reported a contrast-enhanced computed tomography as the preferred method to obtain diagnostic imaging. Left-sided TDI was the type of injury most frequently found. False negative TDI at CT-scan were more frequent than false positive TDI (11.13 ± 23.24 vs. 2.66 ± 6.65). Six studies on blunt TDI were included in the meta-analysis, showing a high sensitivity [0.80 (95%CI 0.65-0.90)] and specificity [0.98 (95%CI 0.89-1.00)] of the CT-scan in detecting TDI. Overall, 7 articles reported laparotomy as the method of choice to repair TDI. Only 3 studies reported a laparoscopic and/or thoracoscopic approach to TDI repair.

CONCLUSION

CT-scan has a good sensitivity and specificity for blunt TDI diagnosis. However, TDI diagnosis and management are often delayed. The use of water-soluble contrast in CT-scan should be considered when the diagnosis of TDI is not defined after the first scan, and clinical suspicion is still high. In this context, a highly trained trauma team is essential for trauma management and correct imaging interpretation.

Transdiaphragmatic Intercostal Hernia-An Unusual Hepatic Injury After a Car Accident: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Transdiaphragmatic intercostal hernia, in which the abdominal contents of the hernia protrude through the diaphragm and the thoracic wall defect. is a very rare type of hernia with only a few cases having been reported in the literature. That type of hernia is usually manifested in male patients after trauma, penetrating or blunt. It is frequently presented with a palpable thoracic mass and pain. The indicated treatment is surgery. We present the case of a 60-year-old female admitted to the hospital after a car accident and suffered multiple rib fractures (6th, 7th, 8th right ribs / 7th, 8th, 9th left ribs), as well as flail thorax, hemothorax bilaterally, left subcutaneous emphysema and swelling of soft tissues of the right lateral thoracoabdominal wall. CT scan revealed herniation of hepatic parenchyma and intestinal loops into the thorax. The patient was treated surgically, and his postoperative course was uneventful. We also review the relevant literature concerning this transdiaphragmatic, intercostal hernia and identify 42 cases. Transdiaphragmatic intercostal hernia is a rare condition, usually manifested in male patients after trauma, penetrating or blunt. It is frequently presented with a palpable thoracic mass and pain. The indicated treatment is surgery.

Unravelling the Mysteries of Traumatic Diaphragmatic Injury: An Up-to-Date Review

Traumatic diaphragmatic injury (TDI) is an underdiagnosed condition that has recently increased in prevalence due to its association with automobile collisions. The initial injury is often obscured by concurrent thoracic and abdominal injuries. Traumatic diaphragmatic injury itself is rarely lethal at initial presentation, however associated injuries and complications of untreated TDI such as herniation and strangulation of abdominal viscera have serious clinical consequences. There are 2 primary mechanisms of TDIs: penetrating TDI which tend to be smaller, more difficult to detect, and result in fewer complications; and blunt TDIs which are larger and have higher overall mortality due to associated injuries or delayed complications. The anatomy of thoracic and abdominal cavities distinguishes the epidemiology, pathophysiology, symptoms, treatment, and prognosis of right versus left TDI. Although there is no definitive radiologic sign for diagnosing TDI, many signs have been introduced in the literature and the concurrent presence of multiple signs increases the sensitivity of TDI detection. Conservative versus surgical management depends on mechanism of TDI, side, and most importantly the associated injuries.

Acute and chronic traumatic diaphragmatic hernia: 10 years' experience

Controversy persists regarding many aspects of traumatic diaphragmatic hernia (TDH). We aimed to understand why some traumatic diaphragmatic injuries present with chronic hernia and to evaluate diagnosis and treatment options. Fifty acute and 19 chronic TDH patients were diagnosed and treated at our institution over a 10-year period. Clinical data from these two groups were analyzed statistically and compared. Chronic TDH patients had a significantly lower Injury Severity Score than acute TDH patients (10.26 ± 2.68 vs. 26.92 ± 4.79, P < 0.001). The most common surgical approach for acute and chronic TDH was thoracotomy and laparotomy, respectively. The length of the diaphragmatic rupture was significantly shorter in chronic TDH patients than acute TDH patients (6.00 ± 1.94 cm vs. 10.71 ± 3.30 cm, P < 0.001). The mean length of hospital stay was significantly longer for acute TDH patients than chronic TDH patients (41.18 ± 31.02 days vs. 16.65 ± 9.61 days, P = 0.002). In conclusion, milder trauma and a smaller diaphragmatic rupture were associated with delayed diagnosis. A thoraco-abdominal computed tomography scan is needed for patients with periphrenic injuries to avoid delayed diagnosis of TDH. Improved awareness and understanding of diaphragmatic injuries will increase the rate of early diagnosis and improve prognosis.

Surgical management of chronic diaphragmatic hernias

Chronic diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is an uncommon disease which may be associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Antecedent (even many months or years before CDH development) blunt or penetrating thoracic/thoraco-abdominal trauma is generally recognized. A wide spectrum of different mechanisms of injury, timing in presentation, size of the diaphragmatic defect, types and amount of abdominal viscera herniated into the chest cavity, clinical symptoms are observed in CDHs. Thoracic and abdominal CT scan (with coronal, axial and sagittal reconstructions) is the best diagnostic tool; sometimes thoracic MRI is needed to better define the extent of the diaphragmatic defect and the number of abdominal organs displaced into the chest cavity. Surgery (sometimes urgent) represents the treatment of choice for CDH; diaphragmatic hernia direct repair with a tension-free suture is generally attempted; in case of very large defects or when a tension-free suture is deemed unfeasible, the use of prosthesis is recommended. This review article will discuss about CDH aetiology, clinical presentation diagnosis and surgical treatment.

Diaphragm and transdiaphragmatic injuries

The incidence of traumatic diaphragmatic rupture (TDR) is around 0.5% of all trauma patients, located more frequently on the left side (80%), with penetrating trauma being more predominantly the cause (63%) than blunt injuries (37%). TDR typically develops during thoracoabdominal injuries and outcome depends on the severity of the associated organ lesion. Diagnosis is sometimes very difficult: chest X-ray can verify TDR in only 25-70% of cases, although the specificity of a multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) is 100% and 83% for left and right-sided ruptures, respectively. When TDR is a part of a polytrauma, the management of the patient must follow the ATLS (Advanced Trauma Life Support) protocol and surgery is rarely based on the primary survey. The usual scenario involves cases detected during the secondary survey. In acute cases approach is determined by the site of the life-threatening injuries. In the daily surgical routine, in cases of acute TDR, laparotomy provides the best approach to manage the associated abdominal injuries and diaphragmatic rupture. Alternatively a transthoracic approach offer access to reconstruction in cases of delayed. A transdiaphragmatic procedure is offered when during an exploration (laparotomy or thoracotomy), any sign of an injury (bleeding, perforation) is verified through the rupture of the diaphragm in the other cavity (abdomen or chest and vice versa): the injury via a transdiaphragmatic way can be managed. Usually, a simple and small rupture up to 5-6 cm can be reconstructed with No. 0 or 1 monofilament non-absorbable or absorbable interrupted sutures, while for larger defects, interrupted figure-of-eight or horizontal mattress sutures are required. Mesh prosthesis is rarely needed.

[Diaphragmatic hernia in elective thoracic surgery]

AIM

To clarify the indications for reconstructive surgery in patients with diaphragmatic hernia.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Retrospective trial has included 36 patients with diaphragmatic hernia for the period 1963-2017. There were 23 (63.9%) women and 13 (36.1%) men. The majority of patients (83%) underwent surgery at able-bodied age (18-60 years). 27 (75%) patients had hernia of weak diaphragmatic zones, 9 (25%) - posttraumatic hernia. Diaphragm repair was performed with primary suture. In 2 cases of posttraumatic hernia mesh endoprosthesis was used.

RESULTS

All patients were discharged. Postoperative complications arose in 4 (11.1%) patients, including 2 cases of mesh endoprosthesis deployment. Long-term outcome was followed-up in 15 patients from 6 months to 17 years. Recurrent hernia was absent in all cases.

CONCLUSION

Primary suture is acceptable for diaphragmatic hernia repair. Alloplastic repair is indicated for large defect, when primary suture is impossible or risk of its failure is high.

Imaging and Management of Thoracic Trauma

Thoracic injury results from penetrating and blunt trauma and is a major contributor to overall trauma morbidity and mortality in the United States. Modern imaging algorithms utilize ultrasound, chest radiograph, and computed tomography with intravenous contrast to accurately diagnose and effectively treat patients with acute thoracic trauma. This review focuses on the etiologies, signs and symptoms, imaging, and management of several life-threatening thoracic injuries including tracheobronchial rupture, pulmonary parenchymal injury, hemothorax, pneumothorax, diaphragmatic rupture, and axial skeleton injury.

The breadth of the diaphragm: updates in embryogenesis and role of imaging

The diaphragm is an unique skeletal muscle separating the thoracic and abdominal cavities with a primary function of enabling respiration. When abnormal, whether by congenital or acquired means, the consequences for patients can be severe. Abnormalities that affect the diaphragm are often first detected on chest radiographs as an alteration in position or shape. Cross-sectional imaging studies, primarily CT and occasionally MRI, can depict structural defects, intrinsic and adjacent pathology in greater detail. Fluoroscopy is the primary radiologic means of evaluating diaphragmatic motion, though MRI and ultrasound also are capable of this function. This review provides an update on diaphragm embryogenesis and discusses current imaging of various abnormalities, including the emerging role of three-dimensional printing in planning surgical repair of diaphragmatic derangements.

Evaluation of the multi-slice computed tomography outcomes in diaphragmatic injuries related to penetrating and blunt trauma

PURPOSE

Traumatic diaphragmatic rupture is a diagnostic challenge for both surgeons and radiologists and generally occurs secondary to blunt and penetrating trauma of thoracoabdominal region.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

56 patients who underwent surgical procedure due to blunt or penetrating trauma were included to the study.

RESULTS

There were 37 diaphragmatic ruptures in the left side and 19 patients in the right side. The most common radiological finding was "the direct monitoring of defect" (54,3%).

CONCLUSION

Findings suggestive of diaphragmatic rupture must be carefully evaluated in patients with blunt or penetrating thoracoabdominal trauma.

Core curriculum illustration: blunt traumatic diaphragmatic hernia

This is the 43rd installment of a series that will highlight one case per publication issue from the bank of cases available online as part of the American Society of Emergency Radiology (ASER) educational resources. Our goal is to generate more interest in and use of our online materials. To view more cases online, please visit the ASER Core Curriculum and Recommendations for Study online at: http://www.erad.org/page/CCIP_TOC.

Blunt diaphragmatic lesions: Imaging findings and pitfalls

Blunt diaphragmatic lesions (BDL) are uncommon in trauma patients, but they should be promptly recognized as a delayed diagnosis increases morbidity and mortality. It is well known that BDL are often overlooked at initial imaging, mainly because of distracting injuries to other organs. Sonography may directly depict BDL only in a minor number of cases. Chest X-ray has low sensitivity in detecting BDL and lesions can be reliably suspected only in case of intra-thoracic herniation of abdominal viscera. Thanks to its wide availability, time-effectiveness and spatial resolution, multi-detector computed tomography (CT) is the imaging modality of choice for diagnosing BDL; several direct and indirect CT signs are associated with BDL. Given its high tissue contrast resolution, magnetic resonance imaging can accurately depict BDL, but its use in an emergency setting is limited because of longer acquisition times and need for patient’s collaboration.

Traumatic Diaphragmatic Injury: A Marker of Serious Injury Challenging Trauma Surgeons

The objectives of this study are (1) to evaluate prevalence of traumatic diaphragmatic injury (TDI), (2) identify the predictors of mortality, and (3) study the accuracy of investigations in survivors of TDI. Retrospective analysis of prospectively maintained database of TDI from January 2007 to December 2011. Emergency department (ED) records, operative details, and autopsy reports were reviewed to determine injury characteristics, treatment provided, and outcome. Statistical analyses were performed using the SPSS ver.15 software. TDI was identified in 75 individuals. Thirty-two of 75 (42.6 %) cases were brought dead to the hospital, and 43/75 (57.3 %) were survivors presented to emergency department, diagnosed to have TDI intraoperatively. Seven of 43 (16.3 %) died postoperatively. Mortality in TDI was significantly related to age (p = 0.001), injury severity (p < 0.001), site of TDI (p = 0.002), and associated injuries (p = 0.021, odds ratio of 9). Death increased with increase in the number of organ injured (p < 0.001, odds ratio of 12). Multi-detector computer tomography (MDCT) detected TDI in 23/26 (88.5 %) cases preoperatively. Laparotomy (p < 0.001, odds ratio of 22) and thoracotomy (p = 0.021, with odds ratio of 9) were associated with survival benefit when compared to minimal invasive surgery in injured cases. The prevalence of TDI was 2.67 %, TDI's mark severity of injury. Mortality increases with increasing number of organ injured. Right-sided or bilateral injury of diaphragm is associated with increased mortality.

Imaging of Traumatic Diaphragmatic Rupture: Evaluation of Diagnostic Accuracy at a Level 1 Trauma Centre

Purpose

Traumatic diaphragmatic rupture (TDR) is an uncommon injury that can be associated with significant morbidity if not detected and treated in a timely manner. The purpose of our study was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of 64-slice multidetector computed tomography (64-MDCT) for the detection of TDR in patients at our level 1 trauma centre.

Methods

We used our hospital's trauma registry to identify patients with a diagnosis of TDR from January 1, 2008, to December 31, 2012. Only patients with a 64-MDCT scan at presentation who subsequently underwent laparotomy/laparoscopy were included in the study cohort. Using surgical findings as the gold standard, the accuracy of the prospective radiology reports was analyzed.

Results

Of the 3225 trauma patients who presented to our institution, 38 (1.2%) had a TDR. Fourteen of the 38 were excluded as they did not have MDCT before surgery. The study cohort consisted of 20 males and 4 females with a median age of 34.5 years and a median Injury Severity Score (ISS90) of 26. Fifteen had blunt trauma while 9 had a penetrating injury. The overall sensitivity of the radiology reports was 66.7% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 46.7%-82.0%), specificity was 100% (95% CI: 94.1%-100%), positive predictive value was 100% (95% CI: 80.6%-100%), negative predictive value was 88.4% (95% CI: 78.8%-94.0%), and accuracy was 90.6% (95% CI: 82.5%-95.2%). However, only 3 of 9 patients with penetrating injury had a correct preoperative diagnosis. Two of the 6 missed penetrating trauma cases had only indirect signs of injury.

Conclusions

The detection of TDR in trauma patients on 64-MDCT can be improved, especially in patients presenting with penetrating injury. A careful search for subtle diaphragmatic defects and indirect evidence of injury is important to avoid missing the diagnosis.

A rare case of chronic traumatic diaphragmatic hernia requiring complex abdominal wall reconstruction

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We present case of chronic traumatic diaphragmatic hernia.

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Traumatic diaphragmatic hernia are rare and under diagnosed.

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Chronic hernia may require complex abdominal reconstruction.

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Computed tomography has diagnostic characteristics.

Introduction

Traumatic diaphragmatic hernia is a rare and often under recognized complication of penetrating and blunt trauma. These injuries are often missed or there is a delay in diagnosis which can lead to enlargement of the defect and the development of abdominal or respiratory symptoms.

Presentation of case

We report a case of an otherwise healthy 37 year old male who was involved in a motor vehicle accident at age twelve. He presented 25 years later with vague lower abdominal symptoms and was found to have a large chronic left sided diaphragmatic hernia involving the majority of his intra-abdominal contents. Repair of the defect with a biologic mesh was undertaken and the patient also required complex abdominal wall reconstruction due to loss of intra-abdominal domain from the chronicity of the hernia. A staged closure of the abdomen was performed first with placement of a Wittmann patch. Medical management of intra-abdominal hypertension was successful and the midline fascia was sequentially approximated at the bedside for three days. The final closure was performed with a component separation and implantation of a fenestrated biologic fetal bovine mesh to reinforce the closure. In addition, a lightweight Ultrapro mesh was placed for additional lateral reinforcement. The patient recovered well and was discharged home.

Discussion

These injuries are rare and diagnosis is challenging. Mechanism and CT scan characteristics can aid clinicians.

Conclusion

Blunt diaphragmatic injury is rare and remains a diagnostic challenge. Depending on the chronicity of the injury, repair may require complex surgical decision making.

Imaging in abdominal trauma

Abdominal trauma is increasing and although penetrating wounds are also on the increase, blunt trauma remains more common. The cornerstone of management is accurate diagnosis and the advent of high-quality rapid CT scanning has revolutionised the treatment of serious abdominal injury. It has allowed the introduction of selective non-operative management which is applicable to many low- and intermediate-grade injuries, whereas application of interventional radiology can avert laparotomy in higher grade injuries. This review examines the pathophysiology of the commonest forms of abdominal injury and uses a series of cases to illustrate the impact of modern radiology in management.

Tension pneumoperitoneum caused by blunt thoracic trauma

Tension pneumoperitoneum is a rare entity that occurs when free air under pressure accumulates in the abdominal cavity compromising visceral function and blood flow. The case of a 23-year-old man whose chest was run over by the wheels of a truck is presented. He arrived with a severely distended abdomen, significant thoracic trauma, hypoxemia, and elevated airway pressures following intubation. Imaging studies revealed massive intraperitoneal free air. He was treated with a decompressive laparotomy but was not found to have a hollow viscus nor diaphragmatic injury. We hypothesize a possible, as yet unpublished, mechanism: secondary to the patient’s rib fractures and significant torso soft tissue shearing, a defect in the parietal pleura allowed air to track from the thorax inferiorly along subcutaneous and fascial planes, eventually entering into the peritoneal cavity through a violated parietal peritoneum. We present a review of the literature on tension pneumoperitoneum.

Multidetector CT of blunt abdominal trauma

The morbidity, mortality, and economic costs resulting from trauma in general, and blunt abdominal trauma in particular, are substantial. The "panscan" (computed tomographic [CT] examination of the head, neck, chest, abdomen, and pelvis) has become an essential element in the early evaluation and decision-making algorithm for hemodynamically stable patients who sustained abdominal trauma. CT has virtually replaced diagnostic peritoneal lavage for the detection of important injuries. Over the past decade, substantial hardware and software developments in CT technology, especially the introduction and refinement of multidetector scanners, have expanded the versatility of CT for examination of the polytrauma patient in multiple facets: higher spatial resolution, faster image acquisition and reconstruction, and improved patient safety (optimization of radiation delivery methods). In this article, the authors review the elements of multidetector CT technique that are currently relevant for evaluating blunt abdominal trauma and describe the most important CT signs of trauma in the various organs. Because conservative nonsurgical therapy is preferred for all but the most severe injuries affecting the solid viscera, the authors emphasize the CT findings that are indications for direct therapeutic intervention.

CT of blunt diaphragmatic rupture

The diagnosis of blunt diaphragmatic rupture (BDR) is difficult and often missed, leaving many patients with this traumatic injury at risk for life-threatening complications. The potential diagnostic pitfalls are numerous and include anatomic variants and congenital and acquired abnormalities. Chest radiography, despite its known limitations, may still be helpful in the early assessment of severe thoracoabdominal trauma and for detecting initially overlooked BDR or late complications of BDR. However, since the development of helical and multidetector scanners, computed tomography (CT) has become the reference standard; thus, knowledge of the CT signs suggestive of BDR is important for recognition of this injury pattern. A large number of CT signs of BDR have been described elsewhere, many of them individually, but the use of various appellations for the same sign can make previously published reports confusing. The systematic description and classification of CT signs provided in this article may help clarify matters and provide clues for diagnosing BDR. The authors describe 19 distinct CT signs grouped in three categories: direct signs of rupture, indirect signs that are consequences of rupture, and signs that are of uncertain origin. Since no single CT sign can be considered a marker leading to a correct diagnosis in every case of BDR, accurate diagnosis depends on the analysis of all signs present.

Diaphragmatic injuries after blunt trauma: are they still a challenge? Reviewing CT findings and integrated imaging

Traumatic diaphragmatic rupture is a life-threatening injury that may occur in patients with blunt trauma. At present, supine chest radiographs is the initial, most commonly performed imaging test to evaluate a traumatic injury of the thorax. However, computed tomography (CT) is the imaging tool of choice, as it is the 'gold standard' for the detection of diaphragmatic injury after trauma. In particular, recent literature indicates that multidetector CT with multiplanar reformations has significantly improved in accuracy. Radiologists working in the emergency room should keep in mind the possibility of diaphragmatic injuries and should routinely integrate the axial images CT with multiplanar reformations in order to detect any potential, subtle or doubtful sign of incomplete diaphragmatic injury.

Isolated right diaphragmatic rupture following blunt trauma

Blunt diaphragmatic injuries are usually caused by blunt trauma or penetrating injuries. The diagnosis may be delayed or missed because of the confusing clinical and radiographic findings and the presence of multiple associated injuries. We report the case of an isolated right diaphragm rupture in a 56-year-old man who sustained blunt thoracic trauma after car accident 2 weeks before presentation. No other injuries were detected, and he was subjected to laparotomy. Diaphragmatic rupture is perceived as an emergency entity. The late appearance of such an injury, without other accompanying injuries, is rare and should be in mind by clinicians treating trauma patients who have a delayed presentation after the injury.

Diaphragmatic hernias: a spectrum of radiographic appearances

Diaphragmatic hernias are common, and although frequently incidental, recognition of both benign and life-threatening manifestations of diaphragmatic hernias is necessary to guide appropriate management. Congenital fetal diaphragmatic hernias, traumatic diaphragmatic rupture, and large symptomatic Bochdalek, Morgagni, and hiatal hernias are typically repaired surgically, while eventration, diaphragmatic slips, and small diaphragmatic hernias do not require intervention or imaging follow-up but should be recognized to avoid confusion with other diagnoses that require additional attention. This pictorial essay will explore the imaging findings and clinical characteristics of these entities.

Treating traumatic injuries of the diaphragm

Traumatic diaphragmatic injury (DI) is a unique clinical entity that is usually occult and can easily be missed. Their delayed presentation can be due to the delayed rupture of the diaphragm or delayed detection of diaphragmatic rupture, making the accurate diagnosis of DI challenging to the trauma surgeons. An emergency laparotomy and thorough exploration followed by the repair of the defect is the gold standard for the management of these cases. We report a case of blunt DI in an elderly gentleman and present a comprehensive overview for the management of traumatic injuries of the diaphragm.

CT imaging of blunt chest trauma

BACKGROUND: Thoracic injury overall is the third most common cause of trauma following injury to the head and extremities. Thoracic trauma has a high morbidity and mortality, accounting for approximately 25% of trauma-related deaths, second only to head trauma. More than 70% of cases of blunt thoracic trauma are due to motor vehicle collisions, with the remainder caused by falls or blows from blunt objects. METHODS: The mechanisms of injury, spectrum of abnormalities and radiological findings encountered in blunt thoracic trauma are categorised into injuries of the pleural space (pneumothorax, hemothorax), the lungs (pulmonary contusion, laceration and herniation), the airways (tracheobronchial lacerations, Macklin effect), the oesophagus, the heart, the aorta, the diaphragm and the chest wall (rib, scapular, sternal fractures and sternoclavicular dislocations). The possible coexistence of multiple types of injury in a single patient is stressed, and therefore systematic exclusion after thorough investigation of all types of injury is warranted. RESULTS: The superiority of CT over chest radiography in diagnosing chest trauma is well documented. Moreover, with the advent of MDCT the imaging time for trauma patients has been significantly reduced to several seconds, allowing more time for appropriate post-diagnosis care. CONCLUSION: High-quality multiplanar and volumetric reformatted CT images greatly improve the detection of injuries and enhance the understanding of mechanisms of trauma-related abnormalities.

Concomitant Rib Fractures and Minor Liver or Spleen Injuries in Blunt Trauma: What is the Potential for Missed Diaphragmatic Injuries?

Nonoperative management (NOM) of blunt liver or spleen injuries (LSI) is widely accepted, but diaphragmatic injuries (DI) can be elusive. We hypothesize that rib fractures and minor LSI (RF+ minor LSI) are associated with DI. Patients with blunt injury undergoing exploratory laparotomy between January 1, 2000, and December 31, 2007, were identified from our registry. The association between injury variables and DI was examined with logistic regression. Organ Injury Scores of the liver and spleen of Grade I/II were defined as “minor.” A potentially nonoperative (PNO) patient had a rib fracture and minor LSI but no bowel injury or hypotension (systolic blood pressure less than 90 mmHg). The incidence of DI was 7.5 per cent (53 of 705) overall but 20 per cent (seven of 35) in patients with RF + minor LSI. Nineteen PNO patients had four (21.1%) DIs. RF + LSI (3.26 [1.74-6.12], P < 0.001) and motor vehicle collisions (4.93 [2.36-10.32], P < 0.001) were independently associated with DI. The incidence of laparotomy in all critically ill blunt injury patients (n = 2177) decreased significantly ( P = 0.003). RF + minor LSI are associated with DI even when there are no other operative injuries. Because NOM is increasingly accepted, the potential for missed DI exists. When high-quality imaging is not available or is equivocal, further studies should be considered.

Diagnostic dilemmas, course, management and prognosis of traumatic lung cysts in children

The patients were 8 and 9 years old respectively. Both were passengers in a vehicle and suffered multisystem injuries. Case no.1 suffered a fractured occipital bone, lung contusions and a small pneumothorax in addition to the traumatic lung cysts in the left lung. Case 2 sustained contused and lacerated liver and right lung cysts. CT examination showed cystic areas in the lung which were diagnostic in case 2. In case 1 a traumatic rupture of diaphragm could not be ruled out and the patient underwent an exploratory laparotomy to deal with the same. The lung cysts in both the patients were treated conservatively and both showed resolution in repeat CT scans done at 6 months.

Computed tomography in left-sided and right-sided blunt diaphragmatic rupture: experience with 43 patients

AIM

To investigate differences in the radiographic signs for left and right-sided blunt diaphragmatic rupture (BDR) in order to provide guidance to avoid missing these injuries.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective review of the computed tomography (CT) examinations of 43 patients with BDR treated at our hospital between January 1995 and 2007 was undertaken. The presence of diaphragmatic discontinuity, diaphragmatic thickening, herniation of abdominal organs into the thoracic cavity, collar/hump sign, dependent viscera sign, abnormally elevated 4 cm or more above the dome of the other-sided hemi-diaphragm, and of associated injuries was recorded and their relationship to each other and to BDR diagnosis examined. A comparison between the use of axial and sagittal/coronal reconstruction images in diagnosis was also performed in 15 patients.

RESULTS

On axial imaging, left-sided diaphragmatic rupture occurred in 31 patients (72%) and right-sided in 12 (28%). Twenty-nine patients had associated injuries. More than 60% of the patients showed the "dependent viscera" sign, "abdominal organ herniation" sign, diaphragm thickening, or had a more than 4 cm elevation of one side of the diaphragm. "Diaphragmatic discontinuity" and "stomach herniation" were seen almost exclusively in left-sided rupture. Those with BDR and haemothorax had a significantly lower incidence of "diaphragm discontinuity" (p=0.034) than those without haemothorax. Sagittal/coronal reconstruction slightly increased the number of band signs, diaphragmatic discontinuities and diaphragmatic thickenings seen.

CONCLUSIONS

Of the CT signs examined in this study, when herniation of abdominal organs was used as a diagnostic marker, only a very small fraction of trauma patients identifiable by CT would be missed. Further, CT signs differ for left-sided and right-sided BDR, thus the possibility of BDR should be considered when any of the reported CT signs are present.

A review on delayed presentation of diaphragmatic rupture

Diaphragmatic rupture is a life-threatening condition. Diaphragmatic injuries are quite uncommon and often result from either blunt or penetrating trauma. Diaphragmatic ruptures are usually associated with abdominal trauma however, it can occur in isolation. Acute traumatic rupture of the diaphragm may go unnoticed and there is often a delay between the injury and the diagnosis. A comprehensive literature search was performed using the terms "delayed presentation of post traumatic diaphragmatic rupture" and "delayed diaphragmatic rupture". The diagnostic and management challenges encountered are discussed, together with strategies for dealing with them. We have focussed on mechanism of injury, duration, presentation and site of injury, visceral herniation, investigations and different approaches for repair. We intend to stress on the importance of delay in presentation of diaphragmatic rupture and to provide a review on the available investigations and treatment methods. The enclosed case report also emphasizes on the delayed presentation, diagnostic challenges and the advantages of laparoscopic repair of delayed diaphragmatic rupture.

Delayed diagnosis of traumatic diaphragmatic hernia may cause colonic perforation: a case report

Early diagnosis of diaphragmatic rupture after traumas may be difficult, and delayed diagnosis may result in increased morbidity and mortality. This paper describes the case of a 32-year-old man who experienced a traffic accident and had diagnosis of traumatic diaphragmatic hernia nearly four months later. The patient was referred to our emergency room suffering from ileus symptoms. Physical examination demonstrated an apparent abdominal distention, tenderness at the upper abdominal quadrants, rebound, and defense. Thoraco-abdominal X-rays and computerized tomography imaging demonstrated intestinal segments with air-fluid levels in thorax. Laparotomy was performed after a preoperative diagnosis of a strangulated-diaphragmatic hernia. At abdominal exploration, it was found that transverse colon and omentum entered into thorax through diaphragmatic defect located at the left diaphragm. Herniating colon segment was complicated with ischemic necrosis and perforation. In conclusion, colon necrosis and perforation may develop when early diagnosis of diaphragmatic ruptures are missed.

The dangling diaphragm sign: sensitivity and comparison with existing CT signs of blunt traumatic diaphragmatic rupture

The objectives of our study were to describe a new CT sign of diaphragmatic injury, the "dangling diaphragm" sign, and assess its comparative utility relative to other signs in the diagnosis of diaphragmatic injury resulting from blunt trauma. CT scans of 16 blunt trauma patients (12 men and four women, mean age 36.6 years old) with surgically proven diaphragmatic injury and 32 blunt trauma patients (24 men and eight women; mean age 37.4 years old) without evidence of diaphragmatic injury at surgery were blindly reviewed by three board certified radiologists specializing in body imaging. Studies were evaluated for the presence of established signs of diaphragmatic injury, as well as the dangling diaphragm sign, in which the free edge of the torn hemidiaphragm curls inward from its normal course parallel to the body wall. The sensitivity and specificity of each sign were determined, as were the correlation between the signs and the interobserver agreement in evaluation of these findings. The radiologists' overall impression as to whether rupture was present was also recorded. In select cases, coronal and/or sagittal reformatted images were available, and they were reviewed following evaluation of the original axial images. Any change in interpretation due to these images was noted. The sensitivity of the radiologists' overall impression for detection of diaphragmatic injury was 77%, with 98% specificity. Individual signs of diaphragmatic injury had sensitivities ranging from 44% to 69%, with specificities of 98% to 100%. The dangling diaphragm sign had a sensitivity of 54% and a specificity of 98%, similar to the other signs. Multiple signs were present in most cases of diaphragmatic injury, and coronal and sagittal reformatted images had little impact. Diaphragmatic injury remains a challenging radiographic diagnosis. The dangling diaphragm is a conspicuous sign of diaphragmatic injury, and awareness of it may increase detection of diaphragmatic injury on CT studies.

MDCT diagnosis of penetrating diaphragm injury

The purpose of the study was to determine the diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of multidetector CT (MDCT) in detection of diaphragmatic injury following penetrating trauma. Chest and abdominal CT examinations performed preoperatively in 136 patients after penetrating trauma to the torso with injury trajectory in close proximity to the diaphragm were reviewed by radiologists unaware of surgical findings. Signs associated with diaphragmatic injuries in penetrating trauma were noted. These signs were correlated with surgical diagnoses, and their sensitivity and specificity in assisting the diagnosis were calculated. CT confirmed diaphragmatic injury in 41 of 47 injuries (sensitivity, 87.2%), and an intact diaphragm in 71 of 98 patients (specificity, 72.4%). The overall accuracy of MDCT was 77%. The most accurate sign helping the diagnosis was contiguous injury on either side of the diaphragm in single-entry penetrating trauma (sensitivity, 88%; specificity, 82%). Thus MDCT has high sensitivity and good specificity in detecting penetrating diaphragmatic injuries.

[Chest trauma: spectrum of lesions]

Blunt chest trauma typically occurs as part of polytrauma, usually secondary to motor vehicle accidents, sports related injuries or defenestration in Western Europe. Each chest compartment may be responsible for immediate and/or delayed complications, thus requiring a dedicated systematic and comprehensive analysis. The use of image post-processing is mandatory in order to not overlook a potentially severe injury. The purpose of this paper is to review the technical considerations of multidetector CT, and the imaging features and interpretation method for each chest compartment, in order to generate an adapted report.

Multidetector CT of blunt thoracic trauma

Thoracic injuries are significant causes of morbidity and mortality in trauma patients. These injuries account for approximately 25% of trauma-related deaths in the United States, second only to head injuries. Radiologic imaging plays an important role in the diagnosis and management of blunt chest trauma. In addition to conventional radiography, multidetector computed tomography (CT) is increasingly being used, since it can quickly and accurately help diagnose a wide variety of injuries in trauma patients. Furthermore, multiplanar and volumetric reformatted CT images provide improved visualization of injuries, increased understanding of trauma-related diseases, and enhanced communication between the radiologist and the referring clinician.

The role of chest computed tomography in trauma

Chest computed tomography (CCT) evaluation for trauma encompasses two main objectives: (1) The evaluation of the acutely injured in the search for diagnoses and (2) follow up assessment or diagnosis of pulmonary complications in the hospitalised patient. In the acute phase of evaluation, CCT has become particularly helpful for the diagnosis of blunt thoracic aortic injury (BAI), great vessel injury, extent of lung contusion, occult hemothorax, occult pneumothorax, spinal fractures and spinal cord injuries and to determine the tract of transmediastinal gun shot wounds. In the subacute phase, CCT has gained popularity for diagnosing pulmonary embolism and evaluation of retained hemothorax. Technological advances have lead to better diagnostic capabilities that can be obtained quickly but, particularly in the trauma patient, there is little consistent data supporting an outcome improvement in the majority of patients despite changes in clinical management. Further data is needed to support use of CCT in select trauma patient populations to increase useful diagnostic yield and cost effectiveness.