Tension fecopneumothorax due to colonic perforation in a diaphragmatic hernia.

A traumatic diaphragmatic hernia is a well-known complication following blunt abdominal or penetrating thoracic trauma. Although the majority of cases are diagnosed immediately, some patients may present later with a diaphragmatic hernia. A tension fecopneumothorax, however, is a rarity. We report on a patient who, 2 years after being treated for a stab wound to the chest, presented with an acute tension fecopneumothorax caused by the incarceration of the large bowel in the thoracic cavity after an intrathoracic perforation. The etiology and management of this condition are discussed.