Unilateral Diaphragmatic Paralysis, A Rare Complication of Laparoscopic Resection of an Ovary Cyst: A Case Report

Unilateral diaphragmatic paralysis can happen after different thoracic surgeries; however, the development of this disorder after laparoscopy surgery is a very uncommon problem. We reported a case of unilateral diaphragmatic paralysis in a young female, who underwent laparoscopic resection of an ovary cyst. She presented respiratory distress during anesthesia recovery and thus was intubated. Chest X-ray showed an elevated right hemidiaphragm with no evidence of pneumothorax or other pulmonary problems. She experienced full recovery from the paralysis with no specific intervention, four days after surgery and was discharged in good condition. In conclusion, a rare complication of the laparoscopy surgery is unilateral paralysis of the diaphragm muscle. It seems that this condition may resolve spontaneously or may need further supportive treatments. Our case was a young woman who experienced this improvement after a short period; however, some may need surgical plication and phrenic nerve pacing. Still, there may be some cases that accommodate the condition and need no treatment.