Acquired Diaphragmatic Hernia Clinical Presentation

Updated: Oct 20, 2022
  • Author: Anne T Saladyga, MD; Chief Editor: Jeffrey C Milliken, MD  more...
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Presentation

History and Physical Examination

Clinical findings in patients with acquired diaphragmatic hernia may include the following:

  • Marked respiratory distress
  • Decreased breath sounds on the affected side
  • Palpation of abdominal contents upon insertion of a chest tube
  • Auscultation of bowel sounds in the chest
  • Paradoxic movement of the abdomen with breathing
  • Diffuse abdominal pain