Traumatic Diaphragmatic Hernia In 3 Canines, A Challenge To Management

Abstract

This paper reports 3 cases of traumatic diaphragmatic hernia in dogs presented to the Small animal Clinic, of the University of Nairobi over a period of 5 years. The patients presented with sudden onset of dyspnea associated with an incidence of trauma. Two of the cases died on the burky table during positioning for radiography while the third died on the surgery table. Radiographic and postmortem examination were used to confirm the clinical diagnosis of diaphragmatic hernia. From the reported cases diaphragmatic hernias have shown to be life threatening situations which require prompt diagnosis and critical patient care for any success. This report outlines the delicate nature of patients with traumatic diaphragmatic hernia and the need for prompt accurate diagnosis and immediate management.