Spontaneous rupture of the right hemidiaphragm after video-assisted lung volume reduction operation

Lung volume reduction operation is an important therapeutic option in patients with advanced emphysema. We report a case of spontaneous rupture of the right diaphragm after a video-assisted thoracoscopic surgical procedure for emphysema. The pathophysiology of this complication is also discussed, along with practical points for perioperative management of emphysematous patients.