Congenital diaphragmatic hernia

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a birth defect in which the diaphragm doesn't form properly, resulting in the protrusion of abdominal organs into the chest cavity. Most babies with CDH have problems breathing and need surgery within the first few days of life. Without treatment, they may be life-threatening complications such as hypoxia, intestinal obstruction, incarceration, and perforation.