A Novel Technique for the Damage Control of Huge Diaphragmatic Injuries

Abstract

A novel technique for the damage control of big diaphragmatic injuriesPurpose: To evaluate and describe a novel technique for the temporary closure ofmajor diaphragmatic defects not suitable for primary suture in damage control setting.Background: It is an acceptable opinion that all left sided diaphragmatic injuriesshould be repaired, as opposed to right sided where the liver may safely protect thedefect. In most cases the repair of the diaphragm is simple, using non-absorbablesutures. Closure of defects not suitable for primary suture, remains a reallychallenging problem. Up today, there is no adequate solution for prevention of re-protrusion of abdominal contents in a damage control setting.Methods: We report a novel technique suitable for treating diaphragmatic injuries indamage control setting. This method allows a rapid temporary closure of, non-suitablefor primary closure, large diaphragmatic defects and part of the damage controlconcept.Results: Two anesthetized pigs were used in an animal trial to evaluate the feasibilityof the technique. Same size defects were created in both subjects. In the first subject,the defect was closed with a plastic (Bogota) bag. In the second subject, thediaphragmatic defect was covered using a large abdominal pad. In both cases, nochest protrusion was observed after completion of the experiment.Conclusion: We describe a simple new technique for temporary diaphragmatic closurethat might be done as part of damage control. Further investigation will help toinclude it to routine surgical arsenal.