International Clinical and Medical Case Reports Journal (ISSN: 2832-5788) | Volume 4, Issue 3 | Case Report | Open Access DOI

Diaphragmatic Rupture Caused by Blunt Trauma: A Case of Left-Sided Herniation and Successful Surgical Repair

Abeysinghe AHMGB^*

Abeysinghe AHMGB1*, Jayasooriya HK1, Pathirana NPNB1, Gunawardana PL1, Abeysinghe AHMCD2

1Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Wayamba University of Sri Lanka

2Faculty of Medicine, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka

^*Correspondence to: Abeysinghe AHMGB 

Abstract

Diaphragmatic rupture is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition that often poses significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. While traumatic diaphragmatic rupture is more commonly associated with blunt force injuries, it is frequently overlooked or misdiagnosed due to its nonspecific symptoms. This case report details a 52-year-old male who sustained a traumatic diaphragmatic rupture following a road traffic accident (RTA). He presented with acute respiratory distress and gastrointestinal symptoms, including shortness of breath and abdominal discomfort. Radiological findings, particularly chest and abdominal X-rays, led to the diagnosis of a left-sided diaphragmatic rupture with herniation of bowel loops into the left hemithorax. The patient underwent a successful laparotomy with diaphragmatic repair and postoperative recovery without complications. This case highlights the importance of early recognition, prompt diagnostic imaging, and timely surgical intervention in preventing further morbidity and mortality in patients with diaphragmatic rupture.

Keywords:

Diaphragmatic rupture, Traumatic injury, Diaphragmatic hernia, Road traffic accident, Surgery, Gastrointestinal obstruction

Citation:

Abeysinghe AHMGB, Jayasooriya HK, Pathirana NPNB, Gunawardana PL, Abeysinghe AHMCD. Diaphragmatic Rupture Caused by Blunt Trauma: A Case of Left-Sided Herniation and Successful Surgical Repair. Int Clinc Med Case Rep Jour. 2025;4(3):1-3.