Spontaneous rupture of the diaphragm during delivery

ABSTRACT

True spontaneous rupture of the diaphragm, as a consequence of pregnancy or delivery, is exceptionally rare; one only case has been recorded. We report a further case where diaphragmatic rupture was followed by herniation and subsequent infarction of the caecum, ascending colon and most of the transverse colon. The diagnostic difficulties, pathophysiology and management are discussed (AU)