WHY DOES CDH HAPPEN

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a birth defect that occurs when there is a hole in the diaphragm, the muscle separating the chest and abdomen. This hole allows abdominal organs, such as the stomach, intestines, and liver, to move up into the chest cavity. CDH can cause a number of problems, including:

• Lung problems: The abdominal organs in the chest cavity can crowd the lungs, making it difficult to breathe.
• Heart problems: The abdominal organs can press on the heart, making it difficult to pump blood.
• Digestive problems: The abdominal organs in the chest cavity can cause problems with digestion, such as vomiting and constipation.

Causes of CDH

The exact cause of CDH is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some risk factors for CDH include:

• Family history of CDH
• Maternal diabetes
• Certain medications taken during pregnancy
• Exposure to certain toxins during pregnancy

Symptoms of CDH

The symptoms of CDH can vary depending on the severity of the defect. Some common symptoms include:

• Difficulty breathing
• Rapid breathing
• Cyanosis (bluish tint to the skin)
• Abdominal distension
• Vomiting
• Constipation

Diagnosis of CDH

CDH is usually diagnosed before birth during a routine ultrasound. If CDH is suspected, further tests may be done to confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity of the defect. These tests may include:

• Fetal MRI
• Amniocentesis
• Chest X-ray

Treatment of CDH

The treatment for CDH depends on the severity of the defect. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the hole in the diaphragm. In other cases, supportive care may be all that is needed.

Surgical Repair

Surgery to repair CDH is usually performed shortly after birth. The goal of surgery is to close the hole in the diaphragm and allow the abdominal organs to move back into the abdomen.

Supportive Care

Supportive care for CDH may include:

• Oxygen therapy
• Mechanical ventilation
• Nutritional support
• Medications to control heart rate and blood pressure

Outlook for Children with CDH

The outlook for children with CDH depends on the severity of the defect. With early diagnosis and treatment, many children with CDH can live full and healthy lives.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the most common cause of CDH?

The exact cause of CDH is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some risk factors for CDH include family history of CDH, maternal diabetes, certain medications taken during pregnancy, and exposure to certain toxins during pregnancy.

2. How is CDH diagnosed?

CDH is usually diagnosed before birth during a routine ultrasound. If CDH is suspected, further tests may be done to confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity of the defect. These tests may include a fetal MRI, amniocentesis, and chest X-ray.

3. How is CDH treated?

The treatment for CDH depends on the severity of the defect. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the hole in the diaphragm. In other cases, supportive care may be all that is needed.

4. What is the outlook for children with CDH?

The outlook for children with CDH depends on the severity of the defect. With early diagnosis and treatment, many children with CDH can live full and healthy lives.

5. Is there anything that can be done to prevent CDH?

There is no sure way to prevent CDH, but there are some things that can be done to reduce the risk, such as avoiding certain medications during pregnancy and getting regular checkups during pregnancy.