Diagnosis of blunt traumatic ruptured diaphragm: is it still a difficult problem?

Background: Blunt traumatic rupture of the diaphragm (BTRD) is uncommon. The diagnosis can be easily overlooked, and radiological findings misinterpreted. In a 15-year experience at the two major trauma hospitals in Brisbane reported in 1991, 85 patients with BTRD were treated, and the diagnosis not always made expeditiously.