Diaphragmatic Position
February 15th, 2021
Overview
Normal Position
- The right diaphragm is usually 1cm higher than the left, due to the presence of the liver.
Hemidiaphragmatic Elevation
Causes of Diaphragmatic Elevation
- Reduced lung volume - lobectomy, pneumonectomy, significant atelectasis
- Diaphragmatic dysfunction - phrenic nerve palsy, diaphragmatic eventration
- Intraabdominal pathology - ascites, tumour, collection
A pleural effusion can cause apparent hemidiaphragmatic elevation.
Diaphragmatic Flattening
Causes of Diaphragmatic Flattening
- Hyperinflation - emphysema
- Large pneumothorax
Example
- Diaphragmatic depression secondary to hyperinflation
![Diaphragmatic depression secondary to hyperinflation]()
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