Post-traumatic diaphragmatic hernia: Diagnostic dilemma in primary care

Abstract

Diaphragmatic hernia (DH) is a common condition following blunt trauma to upper abdomen and is also a commonly missed diagnosis. Its early anticipation in post-traumatic setting is very important to avoid any further life-threatening sequelae. X-ray chest with a nasogastric tube is a simpler way to diagnose this condition. CT scan is a gold standard tool to confirm diagnosis. Due to wide availability of ultrasound (US) in emergency room (ER), this tool will decide the correct way of further evaluation avoiding unnecessary delays in management. We present a case of a diaphragmatic hernia followed by blunt injury abdomen with multiple herniated abdominal contents successfully managed by early intervention.

Keywords

• blunt trauma abdomen
• colon
• diaphragmatic hernia
• small bowel
• stomach