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Traumatic diaphragmatic injury — RCPSC EM MCQ

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HardTraumaTraumatic diaphragmatic injuryRCPSC EM

A 35-year-old has left lower chest pain after a stab wound. He is stable after resuscitation, chest X-ray shows an elevated left hemidiaphragm, and abdominal exam is equivocal. What is the most appropriate investigation?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: D — CT chest and abdomen with contrast with trauma surgery involvement

Lower chest penetrating trauma can injure the diaphragm; CT with surgical involvement is appropriate in a stable patient with suspicious imaging.

Reference: ATLS penetrating torso trauma principles; Canadian trauma imaging practice