Thoracoscopy for the diagnosis of hidden diaphragmatic injuries: penetrating thoraco-abdominal trauma

Penetrating thoracoabdominal stab wounds may cause diaphragmatic and abdominal organ laceration. However, 15-20% of these cases who are stable and managed by conservative treatment might have hidden diaphragmatic injuries, which could ultimately lead to chronic diaphragmatic hernia. Therefore, a safe and exact diagnostic method for the detection of occult diaphragmatic injuries is very valuable. In this study we have assessed the diagnostic value of thoracoscopy in occult diaphragmatic injuries resulting from penetrating thoracoabdominal stab wounds. From March 2005 to October 2007, 30 hemodynamically stable patients with penetrating thoracoabdominal injuries, not requiring emergent