DIAPHRAGMATIC RUPTURE - CT FINDINGS IN 11 PATIENTS

PURPOSE: To determine the signs of diaphragmatic rupture at computed t omography (CT) and the frequency of preoperative diagnosis with CT. MA TERIALS AND METHODS: CT scans in 11 consecutive patients with surgical ly proved tears of the diaphragm due to blunt trauma were reviewed by two chest radiologists. The observers assessed the presence of discont inuity of the diaphragm, herniation of abdominal viscera or omentum, a nd waistlike constriction of the herniated stomach or bowel (collar si gn). Hospital records were reviewed to confirm surgical findings and a scertain whether the diagnosis had been suggested at CT. RESULTS: In e ight of 11 patients, rupture of the diaphragm was on the left, and in three it was on the right. In nine patients, diagnostic findings were identified retrospectively on CT scans; these included discontinuity o f the diaphragm (n = 9), herniation of the abdominal organs or bowel ( n = 7), and constriction of the stomach (n = 3). CONCLUSION: CT enable s detection of most diaphragmatic tears due to blunt trauma.