Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia

With CDH, a hole in the diaphragm allows abdominal organs to move into the chest during fetal development. There, they can crowd the heart and lungs and keep the lungs from growing normally. © CHOP/CFDT

What is congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH)?

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia, or CDH, is a condition that babies can be born with. The diaphragm is a thin muscle that sits under the lungs and helps with breathing. In CDH, the diaphragm doesn't form correctly during the early part of a baby's development inside the womb leaving an opening or hole between the abdomen and the chest cavity where the lungs are located. Because of this hole, organs that are normally in the belly—like the stomach, intestines, or even the liver—can move up into the chest.

Why is this a problem?

When the belly organs move into the chest, they take up space that the lungs need to grow. This can cause the lungs to be smaller or less developed than normal. Babies with CDH may have trouble breathing right after birth because their lungs are not as large or as strong as they should be.

How do we help a baby with CDH?

• At birth, babies with CDH usually need special help with breathing and sometimes a breathing machine (ventilator).

• Once the baby is stable, a surgery is done to move the organs back into the belly and close the hole in the diaphragm.

• After surgery, babies often need time in the NICU to recover, grow, and get stronger.

What does this mean for the future?

Every baby with CDH is different. Some do very well after treatment, while others may have ongoing issues such as breathing problems, feeding difficulties, or needing extra medical care as they grow. The care team will support you and your baby every step of the way, explaining what to expect and how best to help your baby thrive.