Thoracoscopic plication of the diaphragm.

Plication of the diaphragm in symptomatic patients with phrenic nerve paralysis provides excellent relief of excertional dyspnea and significantly increases arterial oxygen tension, and all lung volumes except residual volume. We report diaphragmatic plication using the minimally invasive technique of VATS. This procedure provides excellent relief of symptoms with minimal morbidity and short hospitalization.