Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia in Neonate: Experience in a Teaching Hospital

Abstract

Introduction: Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is one of the major surgical causes of respiratory distress in neonates. Reported survival averages 60% but may be significantly lower. Pulmonary hypertension and pulmonary hypoplasia are recognised as two corner stones of the pathophysiology of CDH.

Objective: Objective of the study was to evaluate the outcome of this birth defect in Bangladesh situation.

Method: This retrospective study was carried out at the Department of Paediatric Surgery of Combined Military Hospital, Dhaka over a period of five years. During this period a total of 8 neonates of CDH were admitted in this hospital. All the data were collected from record sheet and were compiled.

Result: Age of patients ranged from 1 day to 20 days. Out of 8 neonates 5 (62.50%) were male and 3 (37.50%) were female. All patients were diagnosed postnatally. All the 8 neonates had Bochdalek type of CDH. Seven patients (87.50%) had left sided hernia. Two patients (25%) died before operation in the stabilization phase while on ventilator and 6 (75%) were operated. Out of these 6 patients, 5 (left sided) were operated through abdominal route and 1 (right sided) was approached through thorax. Overall outcome was satisfactory in 5 neonates and one died.

Conclusion: Early intervention can result good prognosis in CDH.

Key words: Congenital diaphragmatic hernia; neonate; Bochdalek type

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jafmc.v7i1.8623

JAFMC Bangladesh. Vol 7, No 1 (June) 2011; 28-30