What is a congenital diaphragmatic hernia?

Hole: A congenital diaphragmatic hernia (cdh) is a hole in the muscle that separates the abdomen from the chest. This allows intestines to get into the chest affecting the development and function of the lungs. Some infants with cdh have severe respiratory issues.

Hole in diaphragm : While there are normally openings in the diaphragm to allow passage of blood vessels and the esophagus, sometimes there are additional holes where the diaphragm doesn't form properly. If the extra hole is big enough, some abdominal organs will migrate into the chest an prevent the lung from developing, which can be fatal at birth. Small hernias may never be noticed, or last until adulthood.

CDH-variable defect: A fetus needs the diaphragm,between the abdomen and the lungs to form a complete wall, so the lungs have room to grow normally.A big hole allows the gut to herniate, compress the lungs and they may not develop.A smaller hole, may keep the gut out until baby swallows enough air to push the gut through the hole.The worst defects are often fatal,lesser ones can end up normal with a lot of help.

Variable defect: When the diaphram fails to finish forming, a hole is left between the chest ; abdomen ; bowel can slip into the lung cavity (herniate) before or just after birth(when baby starts to cry ; swallow air).If the lung forms well ; bowel slips later, there is a better chance of lomg term survival. Without room to form the lung on that side can fail.Rapid recognition ; suportiive care is a must.