Prenatal prediction of neonatal morbidity in survivors with congenital diaphragmatic hernia: a multicenter study

First-year growth trajectory and early nutritional requirements for optimal growth in infants with congenital diaphragmatic hernia: a retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To describe the growth trajectory of children with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) during the first year, to assess the risk factors for growth failure (GF) at 1 year and to determine nutritional intakes at discharge required for early optimal growth.

DESIGN

Single-centre retrospective cohort study based on data from a structured follow-up programme.

SETTING AND PATIENTS

All neonates with CDH (2013-2019) alive at discharge and followed up to age 1.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Weight-for-age z-score (WAZ) at birth, 3, 6 and 12 months of age; risk factors for GF at age 1; energy and protein intake of infants achieving early optimal growth.

RESULTS

Sixty-three of 65 neonates who were alive at discharge were included. Seven (11%) had GF at 1 year and 3 (4.8%) had a gastrostomy tube. The mean WAZ decreased in the first 3 months before catching up at 1 year (-0.6±0.78). Children with a severe form or born preterm experienced a deeper loss (from -1.5 to -2 z-scores) with late and limited catch-up. The median energy intake required to achieve positive or null weight growth velocity differed significantly according to CDH severity, ranging from 100 kcal/kg/day (postnatal forms) to 139 kcal/kg/day (severe prenatal forms) (p=0.009).

CONCLUSIONS

Growth patterns of CDH infants suggest that nutritional risk stratification and feeding practices may influence growth outcomes. Our results support individualised and active nutritional management based on CDH severity, with energy requirements as high as 140% of recommended intakes for healthy term infants.

Early Pre- and Postoperative Enteral Nutrition and Growth in Infants with Symptomatic Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia

OBJECTIVES

 Nutritional support during the neonatal and postoperative period in congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is challenging and controversial. We aimed to report on early enteral nutritional support in symptomatic CDH patients during the pre- and postoperative period, including feasibility, associated factors with established full enteral nutrition, and weight at birth, discharge, and 18 months.

METHODS

 We retrospectively collected data on nutrition: type and volume of enteral nutrition and parental support. Enteral feeding was introduced preoperatively from day 1 after birth, increased step-wised (breastmilk preferred), and resumed after CDH repair on the first postoperative day. Baseline data were available from our CDH database.

RESULTS

 From 2011 to 2020, we identified 45 CDH infants. Twenty-two were girls (51.1%), 35 left sided (77.8%), and 40 underwent CDH repair (88.9%). Median (interquartile range) length of stay in the pediatric intensive care unit was 14.6 days (6.0-26.5), and 1-year mortality was 17.8%.Postoperatively, 120 and 160 mL/kg/d of enteral nutrition was achieved after a median of 6.5 (3.6-12.6) and 10.6 (7.6-21.7) days, respectively. In total, 31 (68.9%) needed supplemental parenteral nutrition in a median period of 8 days (5-18), and of those 11 had parenteral nutrition initiated before CDH repair. No complications to enteral feeding were reported.

CONCLUSION

 Early enteral nutrition in CDH infants is feasible and may have the potential to reduce the need for parental nutrition and reduce time to full enteral nutrition in the postoperative period.

Update on Management and Outcomes of Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia

Infants with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) benefit from comprehensive multidisciplinary teams that have experience in caring for the unique and complex issues associated with CDH. Despite prenatal referral to specialized high-volume centers, advanced ventilation strategies and pulmonary hypertension management, and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, mortality and morbidity remain high. These infants have unique and complex issues that begin in fetal and infant life, but persist through adulthood. Here we will review the literature and share our clinical care pathway for neonatal care and follow up. While many advances have occurred in the past few decades, our work is just beginning to continue to improve the mortality, but also importantly the morbidity of CDH.

Fetal lung volumes measured by MRI predict pulmonary morbidity among infants with giant omphaloceles

OBJECTIVE

Giant omphaloceles (GO) have associated pulmonary hypoplasia and respiratory complications. Total lung volumes (TLV) on fetal MRI can prognosticate congenital diaphragmatic hernia outcomes; however, its applicability to GO is unknown. We hypothesize that late gestation TLV and observed-to-expected TLV (O/E TLV) on fetal MRI correlate with postnatal pulmonary morbidity in GO.

METHOD

A single-institution retrospective review of GO evaluated between 2012 and 2022 was performed. Fetal MRI TLV between 32 and 36 weeks' gestation and O/E TLV throughout gestation were calculated and correlated with postnatal outcomes.

RESULTS

86 fetuses with omphaloceles were evaluated; however, only 26 met strict inclusion criteria. MRIs occurred between 18 and 36 weeks' gestation. Those requiring delivery room intubation had significantly lower late gestation TLV and O/E TLV. O/E TLV predicted tracheostomy placement and survival. Neither TLV nor O/E TLV predicted the length of hospitalization or supplemental oxygen after discharge. Three fetuses had a TLV less than 35 mL: one died of respiratory failure, and the other two required tracheostomy.

CONCLUSIONS

Fetal MRI TLV measured between 32 and 36 weeks' gestation and O/E TLV predict the need for delivery room intubation and tracheostomy. O/E TLV correlated with survival. These data support fetal MRI as a prognostic tool to predict GO associated pulmonary morbidity.

Transpyloric Tube Placement Shortens Time to Full Feeding in Left Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia

BACKGROUND

Nutritional complications have an impact in both short- and long-term morbidity of patients with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). We aimed to compare time to full enteral tube feeding depending on route -gastric (GT) or transpyloric (TPT)- in newborns with left CDH (L-CDH).

METHODS

Retrospective cohort study of L-CDH patients admitted to a referral tertiary care NICU between January 2007 and December 2014. Lethal chromosomal abnormalities and death before initiation of enteral nutrition were exclusion criteria.

RESULTS

37 patients were fed through GT, 46 by TPT. TPT children took 11.0 (6.8) days to reach full enteral tube feeding and spent 16.6 (8.1) days on parenteral nutrition vs 16.8 (14.7) days (p = 0.041) and 22.7 (13.5) days (p = 0.020) of GT patients. TPT children had 3.9 (2.4) days of fasting due to GI issues and 20% had episodes of decreased rates of enteral nutrition for extra-GI complications vs 11.4 (11.1) days (p = 0.028) and 49% (p = 0.006). According to the best fitting model (R2 0.383, p < 0.001), the TPT-group achieved full enteral feeding 8.4 days earlier than the GT-group (95% CI -14.76 to - 2.02 days), after adjustment by severity of illness during the first days, o/e LHR_liver and class of diaphragmatic defect. There were no differences in growth outcomes and length of stay between survivors of GT and TPT groups.

CONCLUSION

TPT shortens time to full enteral nutrition, especially in the most severe L-CDH patients. We propose that placement of a TPT at the end of the surgical repair procedure should be considered, especially in higher-risk patients.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Treatment study, Level III. Retrospective comparative, case-control study.

Survival in very preterm infants with congenital diaphragmatic hernia and association with prenatal imaging markers: A retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVES

To describe the outcomes of preterm born infants with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH; ≤32.0 weeks of gestation) and the associations between prenatal imaging markers and survival.

DESIGN

Retrospective cohort study.

SETTING

Multicentre study in large referral centres.

POPULATION

Infants with an isolated unilateral CDH, live born at 32.0 weeks or less of gestation, between January 2009 and January 2020.

METHODS

Neonatal outcomes were evaluated for infants that were expectantly managed during pregnancy and infants that underwent fetoscopic endoluminal tracheal occlusion (FETO) therapy, separately. We evaluated the association between prenatal imaging markers and survival to discharge. Prenatal imaging markers included observed to expected lung-to-head ratio (o/e LHR), side of the defect, liver position, stomach position grade, and observed to expected total fetal lung volume (o/e TFLV).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Survival to discharge.

RESULTS

We included 53 infants born at 30+4 (interquartile range 29+1 -31+2 ) weeks. Survival in fetuses expectantly managed during pregnancy was 48% (13/27) in left-sided CDH and 33% (2/6) in right-sided CDH. Survival in fetuses that underwent FETO therapy was 50% (6/12) in left-sided CDH and 25% (2/8) in right-sided CDH. The o/e LHR at baseline was positively associated with survival in cases expectantly managed during pregnancy (odds ratio [OR] 1.20, 95% CI 1.07-1.42, p < 0.01), but not in cases that received FETO therapy (OR 1.01, 95% CI 0.88-1.15, p = 0.87). Stomach position grade (p = 0.03) and o/e TFLV were associated with survival (p = 0.02); liver position was not (p = 0.13).

CONCLUSIONS

In infants with CDH born at or before 32 weeks of gestation, prenatal imaging markers of disease severity were associated with postnatal survival.

Assessment of pulmonary artery size at birth as a prognostic factor in congenital diaphragmatic hernia: results of a multicenter study in Japan

OBJECTIVE

To assess the reliability of pulmonary artery (PA) parameters as a prognostic marker in neonates with isolated left-sided congenital diaphragmatic hernia (IL-CDH).

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective cohort study conducted by the Japanese CDH Study Group (JCDHSG).

RESULTS

323 IL-CDH patients registered with the JCDHSG were included. 272 patients survived to 90 days of age. Right PA (RPA) and left PA (LPA) diameters and pulmonary artery index (PAIndex) at birth were significantly larger in survivors. The cutoff values of RPA and LPA diameters and PAIndex for survival up to 90 days were 3.2 mm, 2.8 mm and 83.7, respectively, and logistic regression analysis showed that these were significantly related to survival. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that both the PA parameters and liver herniation were significantly related to survival.

CONCLUSIONS

The three PA parameters at birth can predict clinical outcomes and are considered as independent risk factors of liver herniation.

Prenatal assessment of pulmonary vasculature development in fetuses with congenital diaphragmatic hernia: A literature review

Pathophysiological studies have shown that pulmonary vascular development is impaired in fetuses with a congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH), leading to a simplified vascular tree and increased vascular resistance. Multiple studies have described prenatal ultrasound parameters for the assessment of the pulmonary vasculature, but none of these parameters are used in daily clinical practice. We provide a comprehensive review of the literature published between January 1990 and February 2022 describing these parameters, and aim to explain the clinical relevance of these parameters from what is known from pathophysiological studies. Prenatal detection of a smaller diameter of the contralateral (i.e. contralateral to the diaphragmatic defect) first branch of the pulmonary artery (PA), higher pulsatility indices (PI), higher peak early diastolic reverse flow values, and a lower vascularization index seem of added value for the prediction of survival and, to a lesser extent, morbidity. Integration within the routine evaluation is complicated by the lack of uniformity of the methods used. To address the main components of the pathophysiological changes, we recommend future prenatal studies in CDH with a focus on PI values, PA diameters and pulmonary vascular branching.

Role of microRNAs in Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia-Associated Pulmonary Hypertension

Epigenetic regulators such as microRNAs (miRNAs) have a key role in modulating several gene expression pathways and have a role both in lung development and function. One of the main pathogenetic determinants in patients with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is pulmonary hypertension (PH), which is directly related to smaller lung size and pulmonary microarchitecture alterations. The aim of this review is to highlight the importance of miRNAs in CDH-related PH and to summarize the results covering this topic in animal and human CDH studies. The focus on epigenetic modulators of CDH-PH offers the opportunity to develop innovative diagnostic tools and novel treatment modalities, and provides a great potential to increase researchers’ understanding of the pathophysiology of CDH.

Intraluminal chloride regulates lung branching morphogenesis: involvement of PIEZO1/PIEZO2

BACKGROUND

Clinical and experimental evidence shows lung fluid volume as a modulator of fetal lung growth with important value in treating fetal lung hypoplasia. Thus, understanding the mechanisms underlying these morphological dynamics has been the topic of multiple investigations with, however, limited results, partially due to the difficulty of capturing or recapitulating these movements in the lab. In this sense, this study aims to establish an ex vivo model allowing the study of lung fluid function in branching morphogenesis and identify the subsequent molecular/ cellular mechanisms.

METHODS

Ex vivo lung explant culture was selected as a model to study branching morphogenesis, and intraluminal injections were performed to change the composition of lung fluid. Distinct chloride (Cl^-) concentrations (5.8, 29, 143, and 715 mM) or Cl^- channels inhibitors [antracene-9-carboxylic acid (A9C), cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator inhibitor172 (CFTRinh), and calcium-dependent Cl^- channel inhibitorA01 (CaCCinh)] were injected into lung lumen at two timepoints, day0 (D0) and D2. At D4, morphological and molecular analyses were performed in terms of branching morphogenesis, spatial distribution (immunofluorescence), and protein quantification (western blot) of mechanoreceptors (PIEZO1 and PIEZO2), neuroendocrine (bombesin, ghrelin, and PGP9.5) and smooth muscle [alpha-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and myosin light chain 2 (MLC2)] markers.

RESULTS

For the first time, we described effective intraluminal injections at D0 and D2 and demonstrated intraluminal movements at D4 in ex vivo lung explant cultures. Through immunofluorescence assay in in vivo and ex vivo branching morphogenesis, we show that PGP9.5 colocalizes with PIEZO1 and PIEZO2 receptors. Fetal lung growth is increased at higher [Cl^-], 715 mM Cl^-, through the overexpression of PIEZO1, PIEZO2, ghrelin, bombesin, MLC2, and α-SMA. In contrast, intraluminal injection of CFTRinh or CaCCinh decreases fetal lung growth and the expression of PIEZO1, PIEZO2, ghrelin, bombesin, MLC2, and α-SMA. Finally, the inhibition of PIEZO1/PIEZO2 by GsMTx4 decreases branching morphogenesis and ghrelin, bombesin, MLC2, and α-SMA expression in an intraluminal injection-independent manner.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results identify PIEZO1/PIEZO2 expressed in neuroendocrine cells as a regulator of fetal lung growth induced by lung fluid.

Prenatal predictors of mortality in fetuses with congenital diaphragmatic hernia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

PURPOSE

This study aimed to evaluate prenatal predictors of mortality in fetuses with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH).

METHODS

A systematic literature search was performed to identify relevant observational studies that evaluated the ability of lung-to-head ratio (LHR), observed-to-expected LHR (o/e-LHR), observed-to-expected total fetal lung volume (o/e-TFLV), lung-to-thorax transverse area ratio (L/T ratio), intrathoracic herniation of the liver and the stomach, and side of diaphragmatic hernia, using a threshold for the prediction of mortality in fetuses with CDH. Study quality was assessed using the QUADAS-2 tool. Hierarchical summary receiver operating characteristic curves were constructed.

RESULTS

A total of 50 articles were included in this meta-analysis. The QUADAS-2 tool identified a high risk of bias in more than one domain scored in all parameters. Among those parameters, the diagnostic odds ratio of mortality with o/e-LHR < 25%, o/e-TFLV < 25%, and L/T ratio < 0.08 were 11.98 [95% confidence interval (CI) 4.65-30.89], 11.14 (95% CI 5.19-23.89), and 10.28 (95% CI 3.38-31.31), respectively. The predictive values for mortality were similar between the presence of liver herniation and retrocardiac fetal stomach position.

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review suggests that o/e-LHR, o/e-TFLV, and L/T ratio are equally good predictors of neonatal mortality in fetuses with isolated CDH.

Prenatal management of congenital diaphragmatic hernia

Recently, two randomized controlled, prospective trials, the Tracheal Occlusion to Accelerate Lung Growth (TOTAL) trials, reported the outcomes on fetal endoluminal tracheal occlusion (FETO) for isolated left congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). FETO significantly improved outcomes for severe hypoplasia. The effect in moderate cases, where the balloon was inserted later in pregnancy, did not reach significance. In a pooled analysis investigating the effect of the heterogeneity of the treatment effect by the time point of occlusion and severity, the difference may be explained by a difference in the duration of occlusion. Nevertheless, FETO carries a significant risk of preterm birth. The primary objective of this review is to provide an overview of the rationale for fetal intervention in CDH and the results of the randomized trials. The secondary objective is to discuss the technical aspects of FETO. Finally, recent developments of potential alternative fetal approaches will be highlighted.

Systemic Inflammation Is Associated with Pulmonary Hypertension in Isolated Giant Omphalocele: A Population-Based Study

Our objective is to determine perinatal factors contributing to the development of pulmonary hypertension (PH) in patients with isolated giant omphaloceles (GO). All cases of omphaloceles that underwent prenatal and postnatal care at the University Hospital of Lille between 1996 and 2021 were reviewed. We included all infants with isolated GO, including at least a part of the liver, who were treated by delayed surgical closure. Prenatal and postnatal data were recorded and correlated with postnatal morbidities. We compared outcomes between a group of infants with GO who developed PH and infants with GO with no PH. We identified 120 infants with omphalocele. Fifty isolated GO cases fulfilled the inclusion criteria of our study. The incidence of PH was 30%. We highlighted a prolonged inflammatory state, defined as a CRP superior to 15 mg/L, platelets higher than 500 G/L, and white blood cells higher than 15 G/l for more than 14 days in patients who developed PH. This event occurred in 73% of patients with PH versus 21% of patients without PH (p < 0.05). Late-onset infection was not different between the two groups. We speculate that prolonged inflammatory syndrome promotes PH in infants with GO treated with delayed surgical closure.

Impact of fetal treatments for congenital diaphragmatic hernia on lung development

The extent of lung hypoplasia impacts the survival and severity of morbidities associated with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). The alveoli of CDH infants and in experimental models of CDH have thickened septa with fewer type II pneumocytes and capillaries. Fetal treatments of CDH-risk preterm birth. Therefore, treatments must aim to balance the need for increased gas exchange surface area with the restoration of pulmonary epithelial type II cells and the long-term respiratory and neurodevelopmental consequences of prematurity. Achievement of sufficient lung development in utero for successful postnatal transition requires adequate intra-thoracic space for lung growth, maintenance of sufficient volume and appropriate composition of fetal lung fluid, regular fetal breathing movements, appropriate gas exchange area, and ample surfactant production. The review aims to examine the rationale for current and future therapeutic strategies to improve postnatal outcomes of infants with CDH.

Image-based prenatal predictors correlate with postnatal survival, extracorporeal life support use, and defect size in left congenital diaphragmatic hernia

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the association between prenatal imaging predictors of patients with left-sided congenital diaphragmatic hernia (LCDH) and postnatal outcomes.

STUDY DESIGN

CDH study group data were reviewed for LCDH infants born 2015-2019. Prenatal ultrasound (US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data were collected and correlated with postnatal information including CDHSG defect size (A through D or non-repair (NR)).

RESULTS

In total, 929 LCDH patients were included. Both US and MRI imaging predictors correlated with postnatal survival (72.2%) and ECLS use (29.6%). Logistic regression models confirmed increased survival and decreased ECLS use with larger values for all predictors. Importantly, all prenatal values evaluated showed no significant difference between defect size D and NR patients.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the largest cohort of LCDH patients and demonstrates that prenatal imaging factors correlate with postnatal outcomes and confirms that patients in the non-repair group are prenatally similar to type D defects.

Pulmonary hypertension in congenital diaphragmatic hernia: ANTENATAL PREDICTION AND IMPACT ON NEONATAL MORTALITY

OBJECTIVE

To determine the prevalence of pulmonary hypertension(PAH) in left-sided congenital diaphragmatic hernia(CDH); how we could predict it; and how PAH contributed to the model for mortality prediction.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective analysis in three European centers. The primary outcome was the presence of PAH on postnatal day(d)1,7, and at discharge. Studied predictors of PAH were: observed/expected-lung/head-ratio(o/e LHR), liver-herniation, FETO, and gestational age(GA) at delivery. The combined effect of pre-and postnatal variables on mortality was modeled by Cox regression.

RESULTS

Of the 197 neonates, 56(28.4%) died. At d1, 67.5%(133/197) had PAH and 61.9% (101/163) by d7. Overall, 6.4% (9/141) had PAH at discharge.At d1, o/eLHR(OR 0.96) and FETO(OR 2.99) independently correlated to PAH(AUC:0.74). At d7, PAH significantly correlated only with the use of FETO (OR 3.9;AUC:0.65). None were significant for PAH at discharge.Combining the occurrence of PAH with antenatal biomarkers improved mortality prediction(p=0.02), in a model including o/eLHR(HR:0.94), FETO(HR:0.35), liver herniation(HR:16.78), and PAH(HR:15.95).

CONCLUSIONS

Antenatal prediction of PAH was only moderate. The postnatal occurrence of PAH further increases the risk of death. Whereas this may be used to counsel parents in the postnatal period, our study demonstrates there is a need to find more accurate antenatal predictors for PAH. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a rare birth defect characterized by incomplete closure of the diaphragm and herniation of fetal abdominal organs into the chest that results in pulmonary hypoplasia, postnatal pulmonary hypertension owing to vascular remodelling and cardiac dysfunction. The high mortality and morbidity rates associated with CDH are directly related to the severity of cardiopulmonary pathophysiology. Although the aetiology remains unknown, CDH has a polygenic origin in approximately one-third of cases. CDH is typically diagnosed with antenatal ultrasonography, which also aids in risk stratification, alongside fetal MRI and echocardiography. At specialized centres, prenatal management includes fetal endoscopic tracheal occlusion, which is a surgical intervention aimed at promoting lung growth in utero. Postnatal management focuses on cardiopulmonary stabilization and, in severe cases, can involve extracorporeal life support. Clinical practice guidelines continue to evolve owing to the rapidly changing landscape of therapeutic options, which include pulmonary hypertension management, ventilation strategies and surgical approaches. Survivors often have long-term, multisystem morbidities, including pulmonary dysfunction, gastroesophageal reflux, musculoskeletal deformities and neurodevelopmental impairment. Emerging research focuses on small RNA species as biomarkers of severity and regenerative medicine approaches to improve fetal lung development.

How should fetal surgery for congenital diaphragmatic hernia be implemented in the post-TOTAL trial era: a discussion. Prenat Diagn 2022;42:301-309. [PMID: 35032132 DOI: 10.1002/pd.6091]

Following prenatal diagnosis of congenital diaphragmatic hernia, severity can be predicted based on the presence of associated abnormalities, and in isolated cases, on lung size and position of the liver. Severe hypoplasia is defined by a contralateral lung size < 25% on ultrasound; moderate hypoplasia is when that lung measures between 25 and 45% of the normal. In fetuses with predicted poor postnatal outcome a procedure that reverses pulmonary hypoplasia may be considered. In uncontrolled studies, fetoscopic endoluminal tracheal occlusion (FETO) improved neonatal outcome. Recently, two randomized controlled trials compared the neonatal and infant outcomes in fetuses with isolated CDH (www.totaltrial.eu). In severe cases, FETO was carried out at 27⁺⁰ -29⁺⁶ weeks' gestation (referred to as "early") and in moderate at 30⁺⁰ -31⁺⁶ weeks ("late"). Survival to discharge from the neonatal intensive care unit increased by 25% (95%-CI:+6 - +46; P=.0091) and 13% (-1 - +28; P=.059), in fetuses with severe and moderate cases, respectively. Following FETO gestational age at delivery was on average 3.2 (2.3-4.1) weeks earlier following early and 1.7 (1.1 - 2.3) following late FETO. Here the strengths and weaknesses of the TOTAL trials and their translation to the clinic are debated. Discussants are the lead for the trial (JD) and a colleague (AF) not involved. The discussant notes that the observed survival, both in treated and expectantly managed fetuses, was overall less than what is reported by some high volume centers, particularly in North America. Additional criticisms are the potential effects of prematurity on the long term, the inclusion of low-volume centers, and the potential of FETO for severe iatrogenic complications. Therefore results may not be generalizable. The discussants concluded that although FETO may have its value it remains a procedure with a high risk for prematurity and it can be lethal when the balloon cannot be removed prior to delivery. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Clinical characteristics and outcomes of the right congenital diaphragmatic hernia compared to the left: a 10-year single-center experience

PURPOSE

The features of right-sided congenital diaphragmatic hernias (RCDHs) are quite different from those of left-sided CDHs (LCDHs). We have summarized the features of RCDHs experienced in our institution.

METHODS

This retrospective study analyzed the cases of patients with CDH registered at our institution between 2011 and 2020. Defects on each side were compared based on prenatal diagnosis, medical treatment, type of surgery, and outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 101 patients underwent surgery at our institution during the neonatal period, and 11 had RCDHs. RCDHs and LCDHs were significantly different in terms of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (36% vs. 6%, p = 0.002), patch repair (81% vs. 28%, p < 0.001), recurrence rate (36% vs. 11%, p = 0.022), and length of hospital stay (117 days vs. 51 days, p = 0.012). The severity of the fetal diagnosis did not reflect postnatal severity. All patients with RCDH survived to discharge, and there was no significant difference in survival rate between the right and left sides.

CONCLUSION

Neonates with RCDH required more intensive treatments; however, the survival rate was comparable between RCDH and LCDH. RCDH was significantly different from LCDH and an optimal treatment strategy for RCDHs should be established.

The novel fetal MRI O/E CLV versus O/E LHR in predicting prognosis in congenital diaphragmatic hernias: can we teach an old dog new tricks?

PURPOSE

In congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH), ultrasound (U/S) measurements of the contralateral lung commonly provide the observed-to-expected lung-to-head ratio (O/E LHR) and are used to determine the severity of pulmonary hypoplasia. Fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) measurement of the observed-to-expected total lung volume (O/E TLV) has been used as an adjunct to O/E LHR in predicting outcomes. Since O/E LHR only measures the contralateral lung, we sought to investigate if MRI measurements of the contralateral lung volume (O/E CLV) can accurately predict outcomes in CDH. We hypothesize that O/E CLV is a better predictor of CDH outcomes than O/E LHR.

METHODS

We identified all infants with a prenatal diagnosis of CDH at our fetal center who had both MRI and U/S measurements. Using lung volume ratios of right-left 55:45, we calculated O/E CLV from O/E TLV. We used receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curves to calculate the area under the curve (AUC) to compare the predictive accuracy of O/E CLV to O/E LHR for ECMO support, as well as survival to both discharge and 1 year.

RESULTS

Seventy-four patients had complete prenatal imaging with 39% requiring ECMO support. The median O/E CLV was 48.0% and the median O/E LHR was 42.3%. O/E CLV was a better predictor of the need for ECMO support (AUC 0.81 vs. 0.74). O/E CLV was a better predictor of survival to discharge (AUC 0.84 vs. 0.64) and 1-year survival (AUC 0.83 vs. 0.63) than O/E LHR.

CONCLUSION

O/E LHR is a well-validated standard for predicting outcomes and guiding prenatal counseling in CDH. We provide evidence that fetal MRI measurements of the contralateral lung volume corrected for gestational age were more accurate in predicting the need for ECMO and survival. Future prospective studies validating O/E CLV regarding outcomes and ECMO utilization are warranted.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, retrospective comparative study.

Intrapulmonary artery Doppler to predict mortality and morbidity in fetuses with mild or moderate left-sided congenital diaphragmatic hernia

OBJECTIVES

In fetuses with isolated left-sided congenital diaphragmatic hernia (LCDH), prenatal detection of severe pulmonary hypoplasia is important, as fetal therapy can improve survival. Cases with mild or moderate lung hypoplasia still carry a considerable risk of mortality and morbidity, but there has been less interest in the accurate prediction of outcome in these cases. In this study of fetuses with mild or moderate isolated LCDH, we aimed to investigate: (1) the association between intrapulmonary artery (IPA) Doppler findings and mortality at discharge; (2) whether adding IPA Doppler findings improves the prediction of mortality based on lung size and liver herniation; and (3) the association between IPA Doppler findings and early neonatal morbidity.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of all consecutive fetuses assessed at the BCNatal and UZ Leuven hospitals between 2008 and 2020 with a prenatal diagnosis of isolated, non-severe LCDH, defined as observed-to-expected lung-to-head ratio (o/e-LHR) > 25%, that were managed expectantly during pregnancy followed by standardized neonatal management. An additional inclusion criterion was the availability of IPA Doppler measurements. The primary outcome was the association between IPA Doppler findings and mortality at discharge. Other predictors included o/e-LHR, liver herniation and gestational age at birth. Secondary outcomes were the association between IPA Doppler findings and the presence of pulmonary hypertension (PHT), need for supplemental oxygen at discharge and need for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. IPA pulsatility index (PI) values were converted into Z-scores. Logistic regression analysis was performed to investigate the associations between predictor variables and outcome, and the best model was chosen based on the Nagelkerke R² .

RESULTS

Observations for 70 non-severe LCDH cases were available. Fifty-four (77%) fetuses survived until discharge. On logistic regression analysis, higher IPA-PI was associated with an increased risk of mortality (odds ratio (OR), 3.96 (95% CI, 1.62-9.70)), independently of o/e-LHR (OR, 0.87 (95% CI, 0.79-0.97)). An IPA-PI Z-score cut-off of 1.8 predicted mortality with a detection rate of 69% and specificity of 93%. Adding IPA-PI to o/e-LHR improved significantly the model's performance (Nagelkerke R² , 46% for o/e-LHR + IPA-PI vs 28% for o/e-LHR (P < 0.002)), with a detection rate of 81% at a 10% false-positive rate. IPA-PI was associated with PHT (OR, 2.20 (95% CI, 1.01-4.59)) and need for oxygen supplementation at discharge (OR, 1.90 (95% CI, 1.10-3.40)), independently of lung size.

CONCLUSIONS

In fetuses with mild or moderate LCDH, IPA-PI was associated with mortality and morbidity, independently of lung size. A model combining o/e-LHR with IPA-PI identified up to four in five cases that eventually died, despite being considered to have non-severe pulmonary hypoplasia. © 2021 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Prenatal stomach position and volume in relation to postnatal outcomes in left-sided congenital diaphragmatic hernia

Objective

To examine the association between prenatal stomach position (SP) grade and stomach volume (SV) and the need for pulmonary hypertension (PH) treatment after birth in prenatally diagnosed left‐sided congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH), live born >34 weeks.

Methods

In retrospect, SP grade and SV were determined in fetuses with isolated left‐sided CDH from 19 weeks gestational age (GA) onwards at three different time periods (≤24 weeks' GA: US1, 24–30 weeks' GA: US2; ≥30 weeks' GA: US3). Primary outcome was need for treatment of PH after birth. Secondary analyses included the predictive value of SP and SV for other respiratory outcomes and postnatal defect size.

Results

A total of 101 fetuses were included. SP grade was significantly associated with need for treatment of PH (US1, US2, and US3: p < 0.02). Also, prenatal SP grade was positively associated with defect size and development of chronic lung disease (CLD) in survivors. No association was found between SV and respiratory morbidities or postnatal defect size.

Conclusion

SP grade in left‐sided CDH fetuses is associated with an increased need for PH treatment, a larger postnatal defect size and CLD in survivors. We consider SP determination a valuable contribution to the prenatal assessment of left‐sided CDH.

What is already known about this topic?

Prenatal stomach position (SP) grade has been proposed as a predictive ultrasound parameter for postnatal survival, patch repair, need for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and need for prolonged respiratory support in left‐sided congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH).

What does this study add?

In children with left‐sided CDH, prenatal SP grade is associated with an increase in need for treatment of pulmonary hypertension and development of chronic lung disease, with the greatest increase in SP Grade 2 and 4.

A higher prenatal SP grade is associated with a larger postnatal defect size.

In the majority of cases SP grade does not vary throughout gestation.

Randomized Trial of Fetal Surgery for Moderate Left Diaphragmatic Hernia

BACKGROUND

Fetoscopic endoluminal tracheal occlusion (FETO) has been associated with increased postnatal survival among infants with severe pulmonary hypoplasia due to isolated congenital diaphragmatic hernia on the left side, but data are lacking to inform its effects in infants with moderate disease.

METHODS

In this open-label trial conducted at many centers with experience in FETO and other types of prenatal surgery, we randomly assigned, in a 1:1 ratio, women carrying singleton fetuses with a moderate isolated congenital diaphragmatic hernia on the left side to FETO at 30 to 32 weeks of gestation or expectant care. Both treatments were followed by standardized postnatal care. The primary outcomes were infant survival to discharge from a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and survival without oxygen supplementation at 6 months of age.

RESULTS

In an intention-to-treat analysis involving 196 women, 62 of 98 infants in the FETO group (63%) and 49 of 98 infants in the expectant care group (50%) survived to discharge (relative risk , 1.27; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.99 to 1.63; two-sided P = 0.06). At 6 months of age, 53 of 98 infants (54%) in the FETO group and 43 of 98 infants (44%) in the expectant care group were alive without oxygen supplementation (relative risk, 1.23; 95% CI, 0.93 to 1.65). The incidence of preterm, prelabor rupture of membranes was higher among women in the FETO group than among those in the expectant care group (44% vs. 12%; relative risk, 3.79; 95% CI, 2.13 to 6.91), as was the incidence of preterm birth (64% vs. 22%, respectively; relative risk, 2.86; 95% CI, 1.94 to 4.34), but FETO was not associated with any other serious maternal complications. There were two spontaneous fetal deaths (one in each group) without obvious cause and one neonatal death that was associated with balloon removal.

CONCLUSIONS

This trial involving fetuses with moderate congenital diaphragmatic hernia on the left side did not show a significant benefit of FETO performed at 30 to 32 weeks of gestation over expectant care with respect to survival to discharge or the need for oxygen supplementation at 6 months. FETO increased the risks of preterm, prelabor rupture of membranes and preterm birth. (Funded by the European Commission and others; TOTAL ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT00763737.).

Randomized Trial of Fetal Surgery for Severe Left Diaphragmatic Hernia

BACKGROUND

Observational studies have shown that fetoscopic endoluminal tracheal occlusion (FETO) has been associated with increased survival among infants with severe pulmonary hypoplasia due to isolated congenital diaphragmatic hernia on the left side, but data from randomized trials are lacking.

METHODS

In this open-label trial conducted at centers with experience in FETO and other types of prenatal surgery, we randomly assigned, in a 1:1 ratio, women carrying singleton fetuses with severe isolated congenital diaphragmatic hernia on the left side to FETO at 27 to 29 weeks of gestation or expectant care. Both treatments were followed by standardized postnatal care. The primary outcome was infant survival to discharge from the neonatal intensive care unit. We used a group-sequential design with five prespecified interim analyses for superiority, with a maximum sample size of 116 women.

RESULTS

The trial was stopped early for efficacy after the third interim analysis. In an intention-to-treat analysis that included 80 women, 40% of infants (16 of 40) in the FETO group survived to discharge, as compared with 15% (6 of 40) in the expectant care group (relative risk, 2.67; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.22 to 6.11; two-sided P = 0.009). Survival to 6 months of age was identical to the survival to discharge (relative risk, 2.67; 95% CI, 1.22 to 6.11). The incidence of preterm, prelabor rupture of membranes was higher among women in the FETO group than among those in the expectant care group (47% vs. 11%; relative risk, 4.51; 95% CI, 1.83 to 11.9), as was the incidence of preterm birth (75% vs. 29%; relative risk, 2.59; 95% CI, 1.59 to 4.52). One neonatal death occurred after emergency delivery for placental laceration from fetoscopic balloon removal, and one neonatal death occurred because of failed balloon removal. In an analysis that included 11 additional participants with data that were available after the trial was stopped, survival to discharge was 36% among infants in the FETO group and 14% among those in the expectant care group (relative risk, 2.65; 95% CI, 1.21 to 6.09).

CONCLUSIONS

In fetuses with isolated severe congenital diaphragmatic hernia on the left side, FETO performed at 27 to 29 weeks of gestation resulted in a significant benefit over expectant care with respect to survival to discharge, and this benefit was sustained to 6 months of age. FETO increased the risks of preterm, prelabor rupture of membranes and preterm birth. (Funded by the European Commission and others; TOTAL ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT01240057.).

Optimal gestational age at delivery in isolated left-sided congenital diaphragmatic hernia

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the morbidity and mortality of neonates with left-sided isolated congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) according to gestational age at delivery.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of fetuses diagnosed prenatally with isolated left-sided CDH that were delivered in the University Hospitals of Antoine Béclère-Bicêtre and Leuven between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2018. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to calculate cumulative survival at 28 days after birth according to gestational age at delivery. The association between gestational age at delivery, as a continuous variable, and survival at 28 days was modeled using a fractional polynomial. Adjustment for position of the liver, management center and mode of delivery was performed. The association was also evaluated according to the severity of CDH, as defined by the observed-to-expected lung-to-head ratio (o/e-LHR), which was classified as severe (o/e-LHR < 25%), moderate (o/e-LHR between 25% and 45%) or mild (o/e-LHR > 45%).

RESULTS

We included 213 fetuses with isolated left-sided CDH, with a median gestational age at delivery of 38 + 2 weeks (interquartile range, 37 + 0 to 39 + 1 weeks). The survival rates at 28 days and at 6 months were 66.7% (142/213) and 64.3% (137/213), respectively. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed a higher survival rate at 28 days for babies delivered between 37 + 0 and 38 + 6 weeks than for those delivered at or after 39 + 0 weeks (log-rank test, P < 0.001). In the subgroup of moderate CDH, the 28-day survival rate was significantly higher in newborns delivered between 37 + 0 and 38 + 6 weeks than in those delivered at or after 39 + 0 weeks (81.5% vs 61.5%; P = 0.03), and this was also the case for survival rate at 6 months. In the subgroup with moderate CDH, 28-day survival significantly increased with advancing gestational age at birth up to about 38-39 weeks (P = 0.005), and significantly decreased from 39 weeks onwards.

CONCLUSION

Delivery between 37 + 0 and 38 + 6 weeks' gestation is associated with a higher survival rate at 28 days in neonates with isolated left-sided CDH and moderate lung hypoplasia, independently of intrathoracic liver, management center and mode of delivery. © 2020 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Efficacy of Intact Cord Resuscitation Compared to Immediate Cord Clamping on Cardiorespiratory Adaptation at Birth in Infants with Isolated Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CHIC)

Resuscitation at birth of infants with Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH) remains highly challenging because of severe failure of cardiorespiratory adaptation at birth. Usually, the umbilical cord is clamped immediately after birth. Delaying cord clamping while the resuscitation maneuvers are started may: (1) facilitate blood transfer from placenta to baby to augment circulatory blood volume; (2) avoid loss of venous return and decrease in left ventricle filling caused by immediate cord clamping; (3) prevent initial hypoxemia because of sustained uteroplacental gas exchange after birth when the cord is intact. The aim of this trial is to evaluate the efficacy of intact cord resuscitation compared to immediate cord clamping on cardiorespiratory adaptation at birth in infants with isolated CDH. The Congenital Hernia Intact Cord (CHIC) trial is a prospective multicenter open-label randomized controlled trial in two balanced parallel groups. Participants are randomized either immediate cord clamping (the cord will be clamped within the first 15 s after birth) or to intact cord resuscitation group (umbilical cord will be kept intact during the first part of the resuscitation). The primary end-point is the number of infants with APGAR score <4 at 1 min or <7 at 5 min. One hundred eighty participants are expected for this trial. To our knowledge, CHIC is the first study randomized controlled trial evaluating intact cord resuscitation on newborn infant with congenital diaphragmatic hernia. Better cardiorespiratory adaptation is expected when the resuscitation maneuvers are started while the cord is still connected to the placenta.

Interrater agreement for sonographic stomach position classification in fetal diaphragmatic hernia across the North American Fetal Therapy Network

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate inter-rater agreement for sonographic classification of stomach position (as a surrogate for liver herniation) in fetal left congenital diaphragmatic hernia (LCDH) among: (i) fetal medicine specialists from the North American Fetal Therapy Network (NAFTNet) centers within and without the fetal endoscopic tracheal occlusion (FETO) consortium and in comparison to an expert external reviewer (ER1); and (iii) among two expert ERs (ER1 and ER2).

METHODS

Forty-eight physicians from 26 NAFTNet centers and 2 ERs were asked to assess 13 sonographic clips of isolated LCDH and classify stomach position as "intra-abdominal," "anterior left chest," "mid to posterior left chest," or "retro-cardiac" based on the classification published by Basta et al.⁸ Interrater agreement was assessed by determining proportion of stomach position ratings concordant amongst NAFTNet participants and ER1. Agreement for stomach position between ERs was calculated using kappa statistics.

RESULTS

Agreement for stomach position was 69% (39%-85%; n = 19) and 54% (23%-92%; n = 29) among FETO and non-FETO NAFTNet participants, respectively, when compared to ER1. Most disagreement in stomach position was related to a discrepancy of one position. ERs were in agreement for stomach position in 5 of 13 cases (38.5%) and inter-rater agreement was highest for "anterior" stomach position.

CONCLUSION

Interrater agreement for stomach position assessment in CDH was poor across NAFTNet and indeed amongst expert reviewers.

Fetal endoscopic tracheal occlusion reverses the natural history of right-sided congenital diaphragmatic hernia: European multicenter experience

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the neonatal outcome of fetuses with isolated right-sided congenital diaphragmatic hernia (iRCDH) based on prenatal severity indicators and antenatal management.

METHODS

This was a retrospective review of prospectively collected data on consecutive cases diagnosed with iRCDH before 30 weeks' gestation in four fetal therapy centers, between January 2008 and December 2018. Data on prenatal severity assessment, antenatal management and perinatal outcome were retrieved. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis were used to identify predictors of survival at discharge and early neonatal morbidity.

RESULTS

Of 265 patients assessed during the study period, we excluded 40 (15%) who underwent termination of pregnancy, two cases of unexplained fetal death, two that were lost to follow-up, one for which antenatal assessment of lung hypoplasia was not available and six cases which were found to have major associated anomalies or syndromes after birth. Of the 214 fetuses with iRCDH included in the neonatal outcome analysis, 86 were managed expectantly during pregnancy and 128 underwent fetal endoscopic tracheal occlusion (FETO) with a balloon. In the expectant-management group, lung size measured by ultrasound or by magnetic resonance imaging was the only independent predictor of survival (observed-to-expected lung-to-head ratio (o/e-LHR) odds ratio (OR), 1.06 (95% CI, 1.02-1.11); P = 0.003). Until now, stratification for severe lung hypoplasia has been based on an o/e-LHR cut-off of 45%. In cases managed expectantly, the survival rate was 15% (4/27) in those with o/e-LHR ≤ 45% and 61% (36/59) for o/e-LHR > 45% (P = 0.001). However, the best o/e-LHR cut-off for the prediction of survival at discharge was 50%, with a sensitivity of 78% and specificity of 72%. In the expectantly managed group, survivors with severe pulmonary hypoplasia stayed longer in the neonatal intensive care unit than did those with mildly hypoplastic lungs. In fetuses with an o/e-LHR ≤ 45% treated with FETO, survival rate was higher than in those with similar lung size managed expectantly (49/120 (41%) vs 4/27 (15%); P = 0.014), despite higher prematurity rates (gestational age at birth: 34.4 ± 2.7 weeks vs 36.8 ± 3.0 weeks; P < 0.0001). In fetuses treated with FETO, gestational age at birth was the only predictor of survival (OR, 1.25 (95% CI, 1.04-1.50); P = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

Antenatal measurement of lung size can predict survival in iRCDH. In fetuses with severe lung hypoplasia, FETO was associated with a significant increase in survival without an associated increase in neonatal morbidity. © 2020 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Prenatal assessment of congenital diaphragmatic hernia at north american fetal therapy network centers: A continued plea for standardization

INTRODUCTION

Prenatal work-up for congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is important for risk stratification, standardization, counseling, and optimal therapeutic choice. To determine current practice patterns regarding prenatal CDH work-up, including prenatal ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) use, and to identify areas for standardization of such evaluation between fetal centers.

METHODS

A survey regarding prenatal CDH work-up was sent to each member center of the North American Fetal Therapy Network (NAFTNet) (n = 36).

RESULTS

All responded. Sonographic measurement of lung-to-head ratio (LHR) was determined by all, 89% (32/36) of which routinely calculate observed-to-expected LHR. The method for measuring LHR varied: 58% (21/36) used a "trace" method, 25% (9/36) used "longest axis," and 17% (6/36) used an "antero-posterior" method. Fetal MRI was routinely used in 78% (28/36) of centers, but there was significant variability in fetal lung volume measurement. Whereas all generated a total fetal lung volume, the planes, methodology and references values varied significantly. All evaluated liver position, 71% (20/28) evaluated stomach position and 54% (15/28) quantified the degree of liver herniation. More consistency in workup was seen between centers offering fetal intervention.

CONCLUSION

Prenatal CDH work-up and management differs considerably among North American fetal diagnostic centers, highlighting a need for its standardization.

The TOTAL trial dilemma: A survey among professionals on equipoise regarding fetal therapy for severe congenital diaphragmatic hernia

OBJECTIVE

Running randomized clinical trials (RCT) in fetal therapy is challenging. This is no different for fetoscopic endoluminal tracheal occlusion (FETO) for severe left-sided Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH). We assessed the knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) of maternal-fetal medicine specialists toward the antenatal management of CDH, and the randomized controlled clinical (RCT) "Tracheal Occlusion To Accelerate Lung growth-trial."

METHODS

A cross-sectional KAP-survey was conducted among 311 registrants of the 18th World Congress in Fetal Medicine.

RESULTS

The overall knowledge of CDH and FETO was high. Remarkably only 45% considers prenatal prediction of neonatal outcome reliable. Despite, in their clinical practice they perform severity assessment (80%) and refer families for FETO either within the context of an RCT (43%) or on patient request (32%). Seventy percent perceives not offering FETO on patient demand seems as if no treatment is provided to a fetus with predicted poor outcome. Only 20% of respondents considers denying access to FETO on patient demand not as a psychological burden.

CONCLUSION

Often the views of individual respondents contradicted with their clinical practice. It seems that, for severe CDH, clinicians face personal and practical dilemmas that undermine equipoise. To us, this indicates the tension between the clinical and scientific obligations physicians experience.

Prognostic factors of death in children during the first year of life due to congenital diaphragmatic hernia: analysis of a hospital cohort from 2005 to 2015

OBJECTIVE

To describe and analyze the prognosis of children during the first year of life with a diagnosis of congenital diaphragmatic hernia admitted between the years 2005 and 2015 in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

METHOD

In a retrospective cohort, 129 children with a diagnosis of congenital diaphragmatic hernia were studied. The prognostic factors were analyzed, whereupon prenatal, delivery, and postnatal exposure variables were associated with death during the first year of life. The odds ratio and the confidence interval (95% CI) were calculated for all the studied variables, using the chi-squared test and Student's t-test.

RESULTS

The study included 129 children hospitalized from January of 2005 to December of 2015. Seventy-nine (61%) patients died, 50 survived, and 33 had other associated malformations. Among the prognostic factors, the following were significant and increased the chance of death: polyhydramnios (p=0.001), gestational age of the earliest diagnosis (p=0.004), associated congenital abnormalities (OR: 3.013, p=0.022), pO₂ of the first gasometry (p=0.000), pCO₂ of the first gasometry (p=0.000), presence of pulmonary hypoplasia (OR: 3.074, p=0.000), use of preoperative vasoactive drugs (OR: 2.881, p=0.000), and use of nitric oxide (OR: 1.739, p=0.000). The presence of only intestines in the hernia content was a protective factor (OR: 0.615, p=0.001).

CONCLUSION

The mortality in the first year of life in patients with congenital diaphragmatic hernia in this study was 61% in the years 2005-2015. Among the prognostic factors that demonstrated a significant effect, pulmonary hypoplasia had the greatest impact.

Single-Center Outcome of Fetoscopic Tracheal Balloon Occlusion for Severe Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia

OBJECTIVE

To assess feasibility and maternal and infant outcome after fetoscopic tracheal balloon occlusion in patients with severe congenital diaphragmatic hernia.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective cohort study of fetuses with congenital diaphragmatic hernia and observed/expected lung/head ratio less than 30%. Eligible women had planned fetoscopic tracheal balloon occlusion at 26 0/7-29 6/7 weeks of gestation and balloon removal 4-6 weeks later. Standardized prenatal and postnatal care was at a single institution. Fetoscopic tracheal balloon occlusion details, lung growth, obstetric complications, birth outcome, and infant outcome details until discharge were evaluated.

RESULTS

Of 57 women screened, 14 (25%) were enrolled between 2015 and 2019. The congenital diaphragmatic hernia was left in 12 (86%); the pre-fetoscopic tracheal balloon occlusion observed/expected lung/head ratio was 23.2% (range 15.8-29.0%). At a median gestational age of 28 5/7 weeks (range 27 3/7-29 6/7), fetoscopic tracheal balloon occlusion was successful in all cases, and balloons remained in situ. Removal was elective in 10 (71%) patients, by ultrasound-guided needle puncture in eight (57%), and occurred at a median of 33 4/7 weeks of gestation (range 32 1/7-34 4/7; median occlusion 34 days, range 17-44). The post-fetoscopic tracheal balloon occlusion observed/expected lung/head ratio increased to a median of 62.8% (44.0-108) and fell to a median of 46.6% (range 30-92) after balloon removal (all Mann Whitney U, P<.003). For prevention of preterm birth, all patients received vaginal progesterone; 11 (79%) required additional tocolytics, three (21%) had vaginal pessary placement for cervical shortening, and five (36%) had amnioreduction for polyhydramnios. Median gestational age at birth was 39 2/7 weeks (range 33 6/7-39 4/7), with term birth in eight (57%) patients. Twelve (86%) neonates required high-frequency ventilation, and seven (50%) required extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for a median of 7 days (range 3-19). All neonates needed patch repair. Neonatal survival was 93% (n=13, 95% CI 49-100%), and survival to hospital discharge was 86% (n=12, 95% CI 44-100%).

CONCLUSION

Fetoscopic tracheal balloon occlusion for severe congenital diaphragmatic hernia was feasible in our single-center setting, with few obstetric complications and favorable infant outcome.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02710968.

Retinal findings in neonates with congenital diaphragmatic hernia and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation

PURPOSE

To evaluate the prevalence of retinal pathologies in neonates with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) therapy.

METHODS

This retrospective study included consecutive infants that received ECMO therapy for CDH at our hospital between 2012 and 2018. Retinal changes were assessed by mydriatic indirect funduscopy. Recorded patient parameters include gestational age (GA), type of delivery, duration of ECMO therapy, duration of inhalative oxygen supplementation, and postmenstrual age at fundus examination.

RESULTS

Of 54 infants that were treated by ECMO therapy for CDH during the study period, 27 were medically stable enough to receive funduscopic examination and were thus included in the study. Mean GA of these 27 children was 37.3 weeks (range 33.1-40.6) and mean duration of inhalative oxygen supplementation was 12.8 weeks (range 2.7-56.4). Retinal changes were observed in 3 neonates (11.1%). These included multiple midperipheral blot intraretinal hemorrhages in 5 eyes of 3 children and retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in 2 eyes (stage 3 and stage 2, respectively, without plus disease) of 1 child (GA 35.0 weeks; duration of inhalative oxygen supplementation, 11.9 weeks). In all infants, retinal changes regressed without therapeutic intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

Neonates treated with ECMO due to CDH may exhibit retinal hemorrhages, however usually without need for intervention. Prematurely born infants receiving ECMO may develop ROP and thus require ROP screening examinations.

TYPE OF STUDY

Prognosis study.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Prenatal regenerative fetoscopic interventions for congenital anomalies

Fetal intervention has progressed in the past two decades from experimental proof-of-concept to practice-adopted, life saving interventions in human fetuses with congenital anomalies. This progress is informed by advances in innovative research, prenatal diagnosis, and fetal surgical techniques. Invasive open hysterotomy, associated with notable maternal-fetal risks, is steadily replaced by less invasive fetoscopic alternatives. A better understanding of the natural history and pathophysiology of congenital diseases has advanced the prenatal regenerative paradigm. By altering the natural course of disease through regrowth or redevelopment of malformed fetal organs, prenatal regenerative medicine has transformed maternal-fetal care. This review discusses the uses of regenerative medicine in the prenatal diagnosis and management of three congenital diseases: congenital diaphragmatic hernia, lower urinary tract obstruction, and spina bifida.

Is laterality of congenital diaphragmatic hernia a reliable prognostic factor? French national cohort study

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study was to assess whether the laterality of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) was a prognostic factor for neonatal survival.

METHODS

This was a cohort study using the French national database of the Reference Center for Diaphragmatic Hernias. The principal endpoint was survival after hospitalization in intensive care. We made a comparative study between right CDH and left CDH by univariate and multivariate analysis. Terminations and stillbirths were excluded from analyses of neonatal outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 506 CDH were included with 67 (13%) right CDH and 439 left CDH (87%). Rate of survival was 49% for right CDH and 74% for left CDH (P < .01). Multivariate analysis showed two factors significantly associated with mortality: thoracic herniation of liver (OR 2.27; IC 95% [1.07-4.76]; P = .03) and lung-to-head-ratio over under expected (OR 2.99; IC 95% [1.41-6.36]; P < .01). Side of CDH was not significantly associated with mortality (OR 1.87; IC 95% [0.61-5.51], P = .26).

CONCLUSION

Rate of right CDH mortality is more important than left CDH. Nevertheless after adjusting for lung-to-head-ratio and thoracic herniation of liver, right CDH does not have a higher risk of mortality than left CDH.

Tidal volumes at birth as predictor for adverse outcome in congenital diaphragmatic hernia

OBJECTIVE

To assess the predictive value of tidal volume (Vt) of spontaneous breaths at birth in infants with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH).

DESIGN

Prospective study.

SETTING

Tertiary neonatal intensive care unit.

PATIENTS

Thirty infants with antenatally diagnosed CDH born at Hospital Sant Joan de Déu in Barcelona from September 2013 to September 2015.

INTERVENTIONS

Spontaneous breaths and inflations given in the first 10 min after intubation at birth were recorded using respiratory function monitor. Only expired Vt of uninterrupted spontaneous breaths was included for analysis. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis was performed and the area under the curve (AUC) was estimated to assess the predictive accuracy of Vt.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Mortality before hospital discharge and chronic lung disease (CLD) at day 28 of life.

RESULTS

There were 1.233 uninterrupted spontaneous breaths measured, and the overall mean Vt was 2.8±2.1 mL/kg. A lower Vt was found in infants who died (n=14) compared with survivors (n=16) (1.7±1.6 vs 3.7±2.1 mL/kg; p=0.008). Vt was lower in infants who died during admission or had CLD (n=20) compared with survivors without CLD (n=10) (2.0±1.7 vs 4.3±2.2 mL/kg; p=0.004). ROC analysis showed that Vt ≤2.2 mL/kg predicted mortality with 79% sensitivity and 81% specificity (AUC=0.77, p=0.013). Vt ≤3.4 mL/kg was a good predictor of death or CLD (AUC=0.80, p=0.008) with 85% sensitivity and 70% specificity.

CONCLUSION

Vt of spontaneous breaths measured immediately after birth is associated with mortality and CLD. Vt seems to be a reliable predictor but is not an independent predictor after adjustment for observed/expected lung to head ratio and liver position.

Fetal endoscopic tracheal occlusion reduces pulmonary hypertension in severe congenital diaphragmatic hernia

OBJECTIVE

Fetal endoscopic tracheal occlusion (FETO) is associated with increased perinatal survival and reduced need for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) in fetuses with severe congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). This study evaluates the impact of FETO on the resolution of pulmonary hypertension (PH) in fetuses with isolated CDH.

METHODS

We reviewed retrospectively the medical records of all fetuses evaluated for CDH between January 2004 and July 2017 at a single institution. Fetuses with additional major structural or chromosomal abnormalities were excluded. CDH cases were classified retrospectively into mild, moderate and severe groups based on prenatal magnetic resonance imaging indices (observed-to-expected total fetal lung volume and percentage of intrathoracic liver herniation). Presence of PH was determined based on postnatal echocardiograms. Logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate the relationship between FETO and resolution of PH by 1 year of age while controlling for side of the CDH, use of ECMO, gestational age at diagnosis, gestational age at delivery, fetal gender, sildenafil use at discharge and CDH severity. Resolution of PH by 1 year of age was compared between a cohort of fetuses with severe CDH that underwent FETO and a cohort that did not have the procedure (non-FETO). A subanalysis was performed restricting the analysis to isolated left CDH. Parametric and non-parametric tests were used for comparisons.

RESULTS

Of 257 CDH cases evaluated, 72% (n = 184) had no major structural or chromosomal anomalies of which 58% (n = 107) met the study inclusion criteria. The FETO cohort consisted of 19 CDH cases and the non-FETO cohort (n = 88) consisted of 31 (35%) mild, 32 (36%) moderate and 25 (28%) severe CDH cases. All infants with severe CDH, regardless of whether they underwent FETO, had evidence of neonatal PH. FETO (OR, 3.57; 95% CI, 1.05-12.10; P = 0.041) and ECMO (OR, 5.01; 95% CI, 2.10-11.96; P < 0.001) were independent predictors of resolution of PH by 1 year of age. A higher proportion of infants with severe CDH that underwent FETO had resolution of PH by 1 year after birth compared with infants with severe CDH in the non-FETO cohort (69% (11/16) vs 28% (7/25); P = 0.017). Similar results were observed when the analysis was restricted to cases with left-sided CDH (PH resolution in 69% (11/16) vs 28% (5/18); P = 0.032).

CONCLUSION

In infants with severe CDH, FETO and ECMO are independently associated with increased resolution of PH by 1 year of age. Copyright © 2019 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Fetal intervention for congenital diaphragmatic hernia

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a condition that results from incomplete diaphragm formation during embryogenesis. The diaphragmatic defect allows for herniation of abdominal viscera into the chest, and the resulting pulmonary hypoplasia and pulmonary hypertension can lead to cardiorespiratory failure in the neonatal period. There is a wide spectrum of disease severity in CDH, and while advances in neonatal care and the introduction of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation have improved outcomes in many cases, the most severe defects are still associated with high morbidity and mortality. Improvements in prenatal diagnostic and prognostic capabilities have created an opportunity to select high risk patients for fetal intervention. Three decades of refinements in the fetal surgical therapy for CDH have led to the current technique of Fetoscopic Endoluminal Tracheal Occlusion (FETO). Herein, we review the current considerations for selecting patients for fetal intervention, and the contemporary fetal surgical operation for CDH, FETO, with a focus on early outcomes and ongoing studies.

Three-dimensional reconstruction of defects in congenital diaphragmatic hernia: a fetal MRI study

OBJECTIVE

To assess the clinical feasibility and validity of fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction to locate, classify and quantify diaphragmatic defects in congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH).

METHODS

This retrospective study included 46 cases of CDH which underwent a total of 69 fetal MRI scans (65 in-vivo and four postmortem) at the Medical University of Vienna during the period 1 January 2002 to 1 January 2017. Scans were performed between 16 and 38 gestational weeks using steady-state free precession, T2-weighted and T1-weighted sequences. MRI data were retrieved from the hospital database and manual segmentation of the diaphragm was performed with the open-source software, ITK-SNAP. The resulting 3D models of the fetal diaphragm and its defect(s) were validated by postmortem MRI segmentation and/or comparison of 3D model-based classification of the defect with a reference classification based on autopsy and/or surgery reports. Surface areas of the intact diaphragm and of the defect were measured and used to calculate defect-diaphragmatic ratios (DDR). The need for prosthetic patch repair and, in cases with repeated in-vivo fetal MRI scans, diaphragm growth dynamics, were analyzed based on DDR.

RESULTS

Fetal MRI-based manual segmentation of the diaphragm in CDH was feasible for all 65 (100%) of the in-vivo fetal MRI scans. Based on the 3D diaphragmatic models, one bilateral and 45 unilateral defects (n = 47) were further classified as posterolateral (23/47, 48.9%), lateral (7/47, 14.9%) or hemidiaphragmatic (17/47, 36.2%) defects, and none (0%) was classified as anterolateral. This classification of defect location was correct in all 37 (100%) of the cases in which this information could be verified. Nineteen cases had a follow-up fetal MRI scan; in five (26.3%) of these, the initial CDH classification was altered by the results of the second scan. Thirty-three fetuses underwent postnatal diaphragmatic surgical repair; 20 fetuses (all of those with DDR ≥ 54 and 88% of those with DDR > 30) received a diaphragmatic patch, while the other 13 underwent primary surgical repair. Individual DDRs at initial and at follow-up in-vivo fetal MRI correlated significantly (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

MRI-based 3D reconstruction of the fetal diaphragm in CDH has been validated to visualize, locate, classify and quantify the defect. Planning of postnatal surgery may be optimized by MRI-based prediction of the necessity for patch placement and the ability to personalize patch design based on 3D-printable templates. Copyright © 2019 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Reproducibility of Liver-to-Thorax Area Ratio Ultrasound Measurements in Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to investigate the reproducibility of a standardized method to assess the ultrasound liver-to-thoracic area ratio in fetuses with congenital diaphragmatic hernia.

METHODS

We selected 24 images of 9 fetuses diagnosed with left-sided at our institution between January 2010 and December 2017. Eight operators (1 maternal-fetal medicine specialist and 7 sonographers) reviewed the selected images and assessed the ultrasound liver-to-thoracic area ratio according to a standardized protocol. We evaluated the correlation between operators using the intraclass correlation coefficient and compared agreement between the sonographers and a physician with experience in measuring the ultrasound liver-to-thoracic area ratio using a Bland-Altman analysis.

RESULTS

Good intraoperator reproducibility was observed for the standardized ultrasound liver-to-thoracic area ratio (intraclass correlation coefficient, 0.78). Good agreement among sonographers and the physician was also observed for the standardized measurements (bias, 0.01; precision, 0.03; limits of agreement, -0.05 to + 0.07).

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrated that good intraoperator and interoperator reproducibility of ultrasound liver-to-thoracic area ratio assessment is feasible after standardizing the method in our center.

Prenatally versus postnatally diagnosed congenital diaphragmatic hernia - Side, stage, and outcome

AIM

To compare outcomes between prenatally and postnatally diagnosed CDH in a large multicenter database of prospectively collected data and evaluate factors associated with poorer outcome for prenatally diagnosed CDH.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We used information from the multicenter, multinational CDH Study Group database on patients born between 2007 and 2015. We compared differences between prenatally and postnatally diagnosed CDH with respect to survival, side, size, ECMO needs, associated major cardiac malformations and liver position.

RESULTS

3746 cases of CDH were entered in the registry between 2007 and 2015, with an overall survival of 71%. Of those, 68% had a prenatal diagnosis. Survival rates were significantly better in the postnatally diagnosed group, 83 vs 65%. There was a higher proportion of bigger defect sizes, C and D, in the prenatally diagnosed group, but the survival rates were similar when patients were stratified by defect size. The rate of ECMO utilization was higher overall in the prenatally diagnosed group, 33 vs 22%, but it was similar within similar defect sizes. Right-sided defects are more commonly missed at prenatal screening than left-sided CDH, 53 vs 35% (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Prenatally diagnosed CDH is associated with larger defect sizes compared to those with a postnatal diagnosis, and consequently have higher morbidity and mortality. Right-sided CDH are more often missed at prenatal ultrasound. The increasing rate of prenatal detection requires a clear understanding of accurate risk stratification, in order to counsel families and to provide appropriate perinatal management.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

I for a Prognosis Study - This is a high-quality, prospective cohort study with 99% of patients followed to the study end point (death or discharge).

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia: the good, the bad, and the tough

OBJECTIVES

We aim to determine factors that are associated with better outcomes of CDH patients.

METHODS

A retrospective review was performed on all CDH patients admitted to our institution between 2003 and 2016. This study was performed at a single institution which has a fetal care center. Patients admitted with CDH with at least 1-year follow-up during the analysis were included in the study.

RESULTS

Twenty-six (13.8%) patients had a hernia sac, 124 (59%) patients had liver herniation, and 56 (25.1%) patients had an accompanying syndrome. Overall survival to discharge was 73.1% while overall survival to date was 69.5%. The presence of a hernia sac, liver herniation, and accompanying syndromes showed as independent predictors influencing the survival, B 1.968, p = 0.04, OR 7.158, 95% CI 0.907-56.485, B - 1.178, p = 0.01, OR 3.932, 95% CI 1.798-8.602 and B - 1.032, p = 0.05, OR 2.795, 95% CI 0.976-7.764, respectively.

CONCLUSION

In our CDH cohort, the presence of a hernia sac was proven to be associated with better outcomes, while thoracic herniation of the liver was associated with worse outcomes. The accompanying syndromes although being more difficult to manage had a little effect on the outcome of the disease itself.

Long tail balloon as a new approach for fetoscopic tracheal occlusion for a treatment of severe congenital diaphragmatic hernia

Severe congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) remains a significant challenge for neonatal specialists. In order to reduce complications during extraction of the surgical balloon after fetoscopic tracheal occlusion (FETO) CDH, we have developed a FETO with a ‘long tail balloon’ of 2.5 mL volume. Here we describe two successful uses of the device with observed/expected total fetal lung volume (o/e TFLV) of 15% and with o/e TFLV of 24% and ‘liver up’. The o/e TFLV increased to 134% in first case and to 47% in second fetus. The balloon was successfully extracted at 34 weeks' gestation by pulling the long tail suture during second fetoscopy. In the second case the fetus pulled out the balloon from trachea itself by traction onto the balloon's long tail. Both neonates were operated on for their CDH with a good outcome. This work showed the feasibility of this long tail balloon for FETO to reduce the technical difficulty of the balloon extraction and the possibility that fetuses are able to extract the balloon by itself by pulling the balloons' long tail. Further development of long tail balloon for FETO could facilitate its extraction thereby reducing neonatal complications.

Prenatal diagnosis and management of congenital diaphragmatic hernia

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia is characterized by failed closure of the diaphragm, thereby allowing abdominal viscera to herniate into the thoracic cavity and subsequently interfering with normal lung development. At birth, pulmonary hypoplasia leads to respiratory insufficiency and persistent pulmonary hypertension (PHT), that is lethal in up to 32% of patients. In isolated cases, the outcome may be predicted prenatally by medical imaging and advanced genetic testing. In those fetuses with a predicted poor outcome, fetoscopic endoluminal tracheal occlusion may be offered. This procedure is currently being evaluated in a global randomized clinical trial (www.TOTALtrial.eu). We are currently investigating alternative strategies including transplacental sildenafil administration to reduce the occurrence of persistent PHT.

Application of a postnatal prediction model of survival in CDH in the era of fetal therapy

Background: The disease severity in patients with a congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is highly variable. To compare patient outcomes, set up clinical trials and come to severity-based treatment guidelines, a performant prediction tool early in neonatal life is needed.Objective: The primary purpose of this study was to validate the CDH study group (SG) prediction model for survival in neonates with CDH, including patients who had fetal therapy. Secondary, we aimed to assess its predictive value for early morbidity.Methods: This is a retrospective single-center study at the University Hospitals Leuven on all infants with a diagnosis of CDH live-born between April 2002 and December 2016. The prediction model of the CDHSG was applied to evaluate its performance in determining mortality risk. Besides, we examined its predictive value for early morbidity parameters, including duration of ventilation, respiratory support on day 30, time to full enteral feeding and length of hospital stay.Results: The CDHSG prediction model predicted survival well, with an area under the curve of 0.796 (CI: 0.720-0.871). It had poor value in predicting infants who needed respiratory support on day 30 (area under the curve (AUC) 0.606; CI: 0.493-0.719), and correlated poorly with duration of ventilation, time to full enteral feeding and length of hospital stay.Conclusion: The CDHSG prediction model was in our hands also a useful tool in predicting mortality in neonates with CDH in the fetal treatment era. Correlation with early morbidity was poor.RationaleObjectives: (1) Validation of the CDHSG prediction model for survival in a cohort of neonates with CDH, in whom fetal endoscopic tracheal occlusion was applied according to the severity of lung hypoplasia. (2) Evaluation of performance of the model in the prediction of early morbidity.Main results: (1) Confirmation of the predictive value of the model for survival in neonates with CDH in the era of fetal therapy. (2) No correlation of the model with early morbidity parameters.

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia: Impact of contemporary management strategies on perinatal outcomes

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to review temporal changes in perinatal management and 1-year survival outcomes of cases of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) from 1996 to 2015 in Western Australia (WA).

METHOD

This research is a retrospective study of all cases of CDH in WA from 1996 to 2015 identified from five independent databases within the WA health network. Detailed information pertaining to pregnancy and survival outcomes were obtained from review of maternal and infant medical records.

RESULTS

There were 215 cases of CDH with 164 diagnosed prenatally. Between 1996 and 2010, a decline in live birth rates for CDH-affected pregnancies was observed, reaching a nadir of 5.3 per 10 000 births before increasing to a peak of 9.73 per 10 000 births in 2011-2015. A corresponding decline was seen in the number of pregnancies terminated in the same period from 8.3 to 4.6 per 10 000 births (P = 0.14) and an increase in survival of live births from 38.9% to 81.3% (P = 0.01).

CONCLUSION

The improved overall survival rate in infants with CDH over the last 20 years may have resulted in an increased tendency for women to continue their pregnancy with a concomitant decline in termination rates. Information from this study will help in the counselling of women following prenatal detection of CDH.

Providing direction improves function: Comparison of a radial pore-orientated acellular collagen scaffold to clinical alternatives in a surgically induced rabbit diaphragmatic tissue defect model

Gore-Tex® is a widely used durable patch for repair of congenital diaphragmatic defects yet may result in complications. We compared Gore-Tex with a composite of a radial pore-orientated collagen scaffold (RP-Composite) and clinically used porcine small intestinal submucosa (SIS; Surgisis®) in a rabbit model for diaphragmatic hernia. The growing rabbit mimics the rapid rib cage growth and reherniation rates seen in children. We created and immediately repaired left hemidiaphragmatic defects in 6-week-old rabbits with Gore-Tex, SIS, and an RP-Composite scaffold. An additional group of rabbits had a sham operation. At 90 days, survivors more than doubled in weight. We observed few reherniations or eventrations in Gore-Tex (17%) and RP-Composite (22%) implanted animals. However, SIS failed in all rabbits. Maximum transdiaphragmatic pressure was lower in Gore-Tex (71%) than RP-Composite implanted animals (112%) or sham (134%). Gore-Tex repairs were less compliant than RP-Composite, which behaved as sham diaphragm (p < 0.01). RP-Composite induced less foreign body giant cell reaction than Gore-Tex (p < 0.05) with more collagen deposition (p < 0.001), although there was a tendency for the scaffold to calcify. Unlike Gore-Tex, the compliance of diaphragms reconstructed with RP-Composite scaffolds were comparable with native diaphragm, whereas reherniation rates and transdiaphragmatic pressure measurements were similar.

Bowel sounds in the chest: An uncommon presentation of adult hernia

We report a case of a 65-year-old male, who presented with respiratory complaints of cough and breathlessness, managed initially as respiratory tract infection. However, the patient did not improve, and a thorough examination and imaging revealed herniation of a gut segment into the thorax. The patient was operated and respiratory symptoms improved dramatically.