Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a congenital defect of the diaphragm, the muscle that separates the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity. It involves a missing portion of the diaphragm or an opening through which abdominal organs enter the chest cavity, interfering with the normal function of the lungs and heart. This condition is usually diagnosed prenatally through ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging, but it can also be detected after birth if the newborn has difficulty breathing. Treatment of CDH requires surgical intervention to reposition the organs back into the abdominal cavity and close the opening in the diaphragm. Early surgical intervention is essential to prevent serious complications such as respiratory issues or lung damage.