Traumatic Diaphragmatic Rupture with Herniated Intrathoracic Gastric Perforation Presenting as Empyema Thoracis: A Case Report and Literature Review

A bstract Traumatic diaphragmatic rupture leading to gastric perforation herniating into the thoracic cavity is a rare occurrence, particularly challenging when presenting with delayed symptoms. This condition carries substantial morbidity, with mortality rates nearing 50%. We report the case of a 25-year-old commercial tricyclist who sustained a stab wound to the posterior left hemithorax during a robbery. After initial treatment at a private facility, he was transferred to our center due to recurring symptoms, including purulent drainage from a sutured stab wound and difficulty in breathing. The patient underwent successful surgical repair via standard posterolateral thoracotomy. This paper aims to explore the clinical presentation, diagnostic complexities, surgical interventions, and postoperative management involved in cases of traumatic diaphragmatic rupture complicated by gastric perforation.