Laparoscopic repair of a traumatic diaphragmatic hernia.

The laparoscopic diagnosis and repair of an unusual diaphragmatic hernia are described. Extensive radiological assessment failed to demonstrate the injury, which was diagnosed by laparoscopy 5 weeks after the initial presentation. The diaphragmatic tear was adjacent to the costal margin and was repaired using a novel percutaneous technique. The place of laparoscopy in blunt abdominal trauma is discussed.