THORACOSCOPIC PLICATION OF THE DIAPHRAGM

Plication of the diaphragm in symptomatic patients with phrenic nerve paralysis provides excellent relief of exertional dyspnea and signific antly increases arterial oxygen tension, and all lung volumes except r esidual volume. We report diaphragmatic plication using the minimally invasive technique of VATS, This procedure provides excellent relief o f symptoms with minimal morbidity and short hospitalization.