Diaphragm Plication for Eventration or Paralysis: A Review of the Literature

Although etiology and pathology of symptomatic diaphragm paralysis and eventration are distinct, their treatments are the same: to reduce dysfunctional caudal excursion of the diaphragm during inspiration by plication. Minimally invasive diaphragm plication techniques have emerged as equally effective and less morbid alternatives to open plication. This review focuses on the etiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of diaphragmatic eventration or paralysis in adults. (Ann Thorac Surg 2010; 89: S2146-50) (C) 2010 by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons