When diaphragmatic paralysis presents as symptomatic unilateral diaphragmatic dysfunction, the clinical picture warrants a structured, evidence-based management pathway. The approach is shaped by the presence and degree of symptoms and by the patient's overall clinical context.
The patient has unilateral diaphragmatic dysfunction that is symptomatic. In this population, structured intervention — including consideration of procedural options for the affected hemidiaphragm — is part of the clinical pathway.
Initial management centres on optimisation of comorbidities and respiratory rehabilitation. This is typically followed by an observation period before further decisions are made. The full sequenced regimen and the criteria that drive escalation are detailed in the complete protocol.
DOI: 10.1183/20734735.0218-2024