Diaphragmatic rupture epidemiology and demographics
Template:Diaphragmatic-rupture
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Epidemiology and Demographics
Diaphragmatic injuries are present in 1–7% of people with significant blunt trauma[1] and an average of 3% of abdominal injuries.[2] A high body mass index may be associated with a higher risk of diaphragmatic rupture in people involved in vehicle accidents.[1] It is rare for the diaphragm alone to be injured, especially in blunt trauma; other injuries are associated in as many as 80–100% of cases.[3][4] In fact, if the diaphragm is injured, it is an indication that more severe injuries to organs may have occurred.[4] Thus, the mortality after a diagnosis of diaphragmatic rupture is 17%, with most deaths due to lung complications.[4] Common associated injuries include head injury, injuries to the aorta, fractures of the pelvis and long bones, and lacerations of the liver and spleen.[3] Associated injuries occur in over three quarters of cases.[5]