Treatment of unilateral diaphragm paralysis

MIP: maximal inspiratory pressure; MEP: maximal expiratory pressure.

* Severe symptoms are rare and when present, they should prompt evaluation for etiologies other than diaphragmatic paralysis as well as specific diaphragm testing to confirm or exclude the diagnosis.

¶ Even those with residual paralysis can still generally lead a normal life and only have symptoms during situations of increased ventilatory demands (eg, acute intercurrent illness or exercise).

Δ Specific diaphragm testing is necessary as part of the evaluation to ensure the diagnosis. The procedure involves creating folds in the diaphragm and suturing them in place to reduce paradoxical mobility of the paralyzed hemidiaphragm during inspiration. Studies demonstrate an improvement in lung and respiratory muscle function, exercise endurance, blood gas exchange, and possibly dyspnea.