Imaging evaluation of diaphragmatic injuries: Improving interpretation accuracy

Abstract

Diaphragmatic Injuries (DIs) remain a challenging diagnosis with potential catastrophic delayed complications. A high degree of suspicion in every case of severe blunt thoracoabdominal trauma or penetrating thoracoabdominal injury is essential. This review will present the evidence and controversies on this topic providing a practical tutorial for radiologists hoping to improve their interpretive accuracy for both blunt and penetrating DIs. The imaging signs of diaphragmatic injuries will be explained with emphasis on multidetector CT. Diagnostic pitfalls, available protocols and other issues will be presented.

Keywords: Blunt; Diaphragmatic injury; MDCT; Penetrating; Trauma.