Abstract
Introduction Diaphragmatic eventration is a congenital defect of the muscular portion of a hemidiaphragm
that eventually leads to hemidiaphragmatic elevation and dysfunction. The clinical
diagnosis of diaphragmatic eventration or diaphragmatic paralysis may be indistinguishable
and diaphragmatic plication is the treatment of choice for both conditions.
Discussion We review the indications, patient selection, and surgical techniques for diaphragmatic
plication. We explain our preferred technique and guide the reader step by step on
our approach.
Conclusion Minimally invasive diaphragm plication techniques are effective alternatives to open
transthoracic plication and result in significant improvement in dyspnea and quality
of life in adequately selected patients.
Keywords
diaphragm - minimally invasive techniques - surgery/incisions
