Congenital diaphragmatic hernia

A congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is when there is an absence of a child's diaphragm, or a hole in her diaphragm.

• This can occur on either the left or right side, but is most common on the left.
• The contents of your child's abdomen, including her stomach, intestines, liver and spleen may go through the hole and into her chest.
  • This prevents the normal development of the lung on that side, and may affect the growth of the other lung.

After she's born, your baby will have difficulty breathing if her lungs are not developed enough.

There are two types of diaphragmatic hernia:

• Bochdalek hernia: This type involves an opening on the back side of the diaphragm. The stomach, intestines and liver or spleen usually move up into the chest cavity.

• Morgagni hernia: This type is rare and involves an opening in the front of the diaphragm, just behind the breastbone. The liver or intestines may move up into the chest cavity.

Advanced Fetal Care Center

If you are an expectant parent who has received a prenatal diagnosis of CDH, or if CDH is suspected, you can contact Children's Hospital Boston's Advanced Fetal Care Center.

The AFCC provides diagnostic studies, counseling, treatment and care when CDH is suspected during pregnancy.