Closed Traumatic Rupture of the Diaphragm

Summary 1. The patients suffering from closed traumatic rupture of the diaphragm for the years 1953‐63 at the Royal Melbourne Hospital have been reviewed. 2. There were 10 immediate and one delayed ruptures; 6 being on the left and 5 on the right side. 3. The modes of trauma, the commonness of associated injuries and the frequency of thoracic or abdominal signs are recorded. 4. The possible clinical features and the appropriate investigation are pointed out. An analysis of the low rate of correct diagnoses is then made and the importance of an awareness of the condition of chest X‐rays has been emphasised.