Diaphragmatic hernia – Hernia of the diaphragm

Diaphragmatic Hernia (Hernia—Diaphragmatic; Congenital Hernia of the Diaphragm)

Description hernia of the diaphragm

Diaphragmatic hernia is a congenital, in which at birth is present hole in the diaphragm. The diaphragm is a partition, separating the chest and abdominal cavities. When a hernia of the diaphragm, some of the bodies, which are usually located in the abdomen, move into the chest cavity. Children, born with a diaphragmatic hernia, abdominal organs hinder the growth of the lungs and interfere with their normal development and breathing.

Diaphragmatic hernia is a serious condition, with many potential complications and side effects.

Causes of hernia of the diaphragm

Diaphragmatic hernia is caused by the overgrowth of incomplete diaphragm in utero.

Risk factors for hernia of the diaphragm

With the increased probability of congenital diaphragmatic hernia involve some chromosomal syndromes.

The symptoms of a hernia of the diaphragm

Symptoms include:

• Severe respiratory failure, including rapid breathing, wheezing and a bluish tinge to the skin from lack of oxygen;
• Asymmetric or increased in diameter chest wall;
• Vpalыy life.

Diagnosis hernia of the diaphragm

Diagnosis is often made on prenatal ultrasound.

If the hernia of the diaphragm was not detected before birth, the doctor may find it during the medical examination. To confirm the presence of abdominal organs within the thoracic cavity, It can be made by chest X-ray .

Treatment of hernia of the diaphragm

Treatments include diaphragmatic hernia:

Surgery

The operation to correct the defect and move the organs into the abdomen is performed after the stabilization of the baby. Surgery involves either sewing together the edges of the aperture, or, If the hole is too big, the use of artificial patch, to fully close the hole. In some settings for individual patients can be offered fetal surgery (Aperture Correction fetus in the womb itself).

Breathing support

Patients often need the support of respiratory functions, including intubation with mechanical ventilation. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) or connect to the heart-lung machine may be needed, to stabilize the baby.

Prevention hernia of the diaphragm

At the moment, there are no prevention methods to avoid diaphragmatic hernia.