Diaphragmatic injury presenting as delayed hemothorax.

Diaphragmatic injuries are difficult to diagnose if not associated with conditions that require exploration even with the noninvasive and minimally invasive tools available in evaluation of the trauma patient. The diaphragm anatomically and physiologically separates the largest body cavities making it vulnerable to penetrating injuries to the thoracoabdominal region. Its structural and functional importance is reflected in the serious consequences that can result after missed injury. This injury has a highly varied clinical and radiological presentation, and can remain occult. We present a case of diaphragmatic laceration discovered after exploratory thoracotomy for delayed hemothorax.