Hight diaphragmatic hernia with hepatothorax: case report and literature review

INTRODUCTION: Traumatic diaphragm lesions still remain problematic in diagnosis and handling. CASE REPORT: Patient with diaphragmatic hernia had the diagnosis made three years after car accident. At admission, he was with abdominal pain and respiratory distress. Submitted to image investigation, had the diagnosis done of a diaphragm herniation. Laparotomy revealed liver and adjacent viscera into the thorax and a diaphragm defect of 15 cm. The defect was closed without the use any mash. There was no complications and in an outclinic assistance, one year later, he was asymptomatic. CONCLUSION: Diaphragmatic herniations are rare entities. Image examination is indicated and can do correct diagnosis in all cases. Laparotomy or thoracotomy must be use in defect reparation.