Does a Negative Emergency Celiotomy Exclude the Possibility of Significant Diaphragmatic Injury? A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Diaphragmatic rupture (DR) is an uncommon, potentially serious complication following blunt or penetrating abdominal trauma. Even with a high index of suspicion, the diagnosis of DR can easily be missed for a long period post injury. Delayed or missed diagnosis [delayed diagnosis of diaphragmatic rupture (DDDR)] and delayed diaphragmatic rupture (DDR) are possible explanations in cases where the initial operative exploration fails to show the diaphragmatic damage