Case Report of a Laparoscopic Primary Diaphragmatic Repair in Acute Penetrating Trauma: Is It Within the Realm of an Acute Care Surgeon?

Abstract

The laparoscopic repair of traumatic diaphragmatic injuries in the acute phase has not been well established. The current consensus view is an elective repair by a surgeon with an advanced laparoscopic skill set. This case report illustrates the position that with judicious patient selection an acute repair is not only possible but well within the realm of an acute care surgeon. Anterior diaphragmatic injuries with penetrating trauma can even be repaired primarily without the need for prosthetic reinforcement. It is hoped that this case report will add to the surgical armamentarium of the acute care surgeon.