Additional pediatric resources: GeneralPediatrics.com | PediatricEducation.org | SearchingPediatrics.com
Michael P. D'Alessandro, M.D.
Peer Review Status: Internally Peer Reviewed
Etiology/Pathophysiology:
In a difficult delivery such as breech, difficult forceps or shoulder
dystocia, traction on an extremity or cervical hyperextension during
birth can stretch cervical nerves 3-5 in the brachial plexus, thereby
damaging the phrenic nerve. This causes unilateral paralysis of the
diaphragm in the newborn leading to decreased respiratory effort.
Pathology:
Not applicable
Imaging Findings:
On fluoroscopy paradoxical motion of hemidiaphragm is seen with
elevation on inspiration and descent on expiration. The mediastinum
has a to-and-fro motion and shifts away from the affected side in
inspiration and shifts back towards the midline on expiration.
DDX:
Not applicable
References:
See References Chapter.
Additional pediatric resources: GeneralPediatrics.com | PediatricEducation.org | SearchingPediatrics.com
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