Congenital diaphragmatic hernia: where and what is the evidence?

Major surgical conditions of childhood and their lifelong implications: comprehensive review

BACKGROUND

In recent decades, the survival of children with congenital anomalies and paediatric cancer has improved dramatically such that there has been a steady shift towards understanding their lifelong health outcomes. Paediatric surgeons will actively manage such conditions in childhood and adolescence, however, adult surgeons must later care for these 'grown-ups' in adulthood. This article aims to highlight some of those rare disorders encountered by paediatric surgeons requiring long-term follow-up, their management in childhood and their survivorship impact, in order that the adult specialist may be better equipped with skills and knowledge to manage these patients into adulthood.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature review was performed to identify relevant publications. Research studies, review articles and guidelines were sought, focusing on the paediatric management and long-term outcomes of surgical conditions of childhood. The article has been written for adult surgeon readership.

RESULTS

This article describes the aforementioned conditions, their management in childhood and their lifelong implications, including: oesophageal atresia, tracheo-oesophageal fistula, malrotation, short bowel syndrome, duodenal atresia, gastroschisis, exomphalos, choledochal malformations, biliary atresia, Hirschsprung disease, anorectal malformations, congenital diaphragmatic hernia, congenital lung lesions and paediatric cancer.

CONCLUSION

The increasing survivorship of children affected by surgical conditions will translate into a growing population of adults with lifelong conditions and specialist healthcare needs. The importance of transition from childhood to adulthood is becoming realized. It is hoped that this timely review will enthuse the readership to offer care for such vulnerable patients, and to collaborate with paediatric surgeons in providing successful and seamless transitional care.

Factors contributing to mortality in neonates with congenital diaphragmatic hernia and eventration

Introduction

Despite all the advances, the mortality rate of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) ranges from 30% to 60% for isolated CDH and as high as 89% when they are associated with additional structural or chromosomal anomalies. Hence, a study was conducted to evaluate the factors contributing to the mortality of neonates treated for CDH or the eventration of diaphragm.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective study was conducted in the department of paediatric surgery at a tertiary centre. The neonates admitted with a diagnosis of CDH or eventration requiring surgery, between March 2013 and March 2021, were included in the study.

Results

A total of 123 neonates were included in the study. The variables, earlier median age at presentation (1 [1-23] vs. 3 [1-28]; P < 0.001; Mann-Whitney U-test), preterm birth (10/79 vs. 0/44; P = 0.01; Fischer's exact test), inborn (68/79 vs. 27/44; P = 0.002; Chi-square test), weight ≤2 kg (18/79 vs. 1/44; P = 0.003; Chi-square test), central cyanosis at presentation (21/79 vs. 1/44; P < 0.001; Chi-square test), antenatal detection (47/79 vs. 14/44; P = 0.003; Chi-square test) and earlier mean age at surgery (3.66 ± 1.47 vs. 7.66 ± 6.88; P < 0.001; Independent sample t-test) were associated with increased mortality. On multinominal logistic regression analysis, the factors preterm (odd's Ratio [OR] =4.735; P = 0.03), weight ≤2 kg (OR = 5.081; P = 0.02), central cyanosis at presentation (OR = 6.969; P = 0.008) and antenatal detection (OR = 7.471; P = 0.006) were found to be independently associated with increased mortality in CDH/eventration.

Conclusion

The factors: prematurity, weight <2 kg, cyanosis at presentation and antenatal diagnosis were independently associated with increased mortality in neonates with CDH/eventration requiring surgery.

Successful early diagnosis and surgical treatment of congenital caval foramen hernia in an 8-month-old mixed breed cat

An 8-month-old neutered female domestic mixed breed cat was presented to Dr. L. Kriaučeliūnas Small Animal Clinic due to coughing that persisted for 2 weeks. Lateral and dorsoventral chest radiographs revealed an unusual dome-shaped soft tissue opacity mass that had contact with the cranial part of the diaphragm. Together with heart and abdominal ultrasound findings, we decided that one of the differential diagnoses was a diaphragmatic hernia. During the diagnostic celiotomy, a vertical 4 cm in length diaphragmatic deficit was visualized. Left medial and lateral liver lobes were herniated, yet healthy-looking. Adhesions between the liver lobes and the pericardium sac were visualized and dissected. The pericardium was sutured with simple interrupted suture pattern. A herniorrhaphy was performed suturing the diaphragm with the continuous suture pattern. Successful surgical treatment resulted in fully resolved clinical symptoms.

Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia: Perinatal Prognostic Factors and Short-Term Outcomes in a Single-Center Series

Background: Many prognostic factors for CDH patients are described and validated in the current literature: the size of diaphragmatic defects, need for patch repair, pulmonary hypertension and left ventricular dysfunction are recognized as the most influencing outcomes. The aim of this study is to analyze the influence of these parameters in the outcome of CDH patients in our department and identify any further prognostic factors. Methods: An observational retrospective single-center study was conducted including all patients treated at our centre with posterolateral CDH between 01.01.1997 and 12.31.2019. The main outcomes evaluated were mortality and length of hospital stay. A univariate and multivariate analysis was performed. Results: We identified 140 patients with posterolateral CDH; 34.8% died before discharge. The overall median length of stay was 24 days. A univariate analysis confirmed that both outcomes are associated with the size of diaphragmatic defects, need for patch repair and presence of spleen-up (p < 0.05). A multivariate analysis identified that the need for patch repair and maximum dopamine dose used for cardiac dysfunction are independent parameters associated with the length of stay only (p < 0.001). Conclusions: In our series, the duration of hospitalization is longer for newborns with CDH treated with higher doses of dopamine for left ventricular dysfunction or needing patch repair in large diaphragmatic defects.

Epidemiologic and clinical characteristics of selected congenital anomalies at the largest Bosnian pediatric surgery tertiary center

Congenital anomalies (CA) are any abnormality present at birth, either structural or functional, that may potentially affect an infant's health, development, and/or survival. There is a paucity of studies on clinical characteristics and outcomes of CA in Bosnia and Herzegovina, mainly due to the lack of a nationwide congenital malformations monitoring system. A 5-year hospital-based study was conducted to determine the prevalence at birth and clinical characteristics of selected major CA in Sarajevo Canton, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Ninety-one CA were observed from 2012 to 2016 (the overall prevalence was 39.6 cases/10,000 live births). The mean age of neonates at diagnosis was 3 days. The gastrointestinal tract was the most commonly affected system (76.9%), with esophageal atresia (EA) being the most frequent (17.6% of all CA). Major CA were more prevalent among preterm infants than term infants (P = .001), particularly in males (61.5% vs. 38.5%; P = .028; M:F ratio was 1.59). Multiple CA were seen in 37.4% of neonates. The overall mortality rate of neonates was 11%, and the median length of hospital stay was 19.8 days. Our study revealed the distribution and clinical patterns of common major CA in the largest tertiary care facility in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It also confirmed a relatively high mortality rate, which requires further efforts to improve the quality of neonatal care in the country.

Long term outcomes in CDH: Cardiopulmonary outcomes and health related quality of life

BACKGROUND

With improvements in clinical management and an increase in CDH survivorship there is a crucial need for better understanding of long-term health outcomes in CDH.

AIM

To investigate the prevalence of cardiopulmonary health morbidity and health related quality of life (HRQoL) in CDH survivors.

METHODS

We included all studies (n = 65) investigating long-term cardiopulmonary outcomes in CDH patients more than 2 years published in the last 30 years. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale and the CASP checklist for cohort studies were utilized to assess study quality. Results were reported descriptively and collated by age group where possible.

RESULTS

The incidence of pulmonary hypertension was highly variable (4.5-38%), though rates (%) appeared to diminish after 5 years of age. Lung function indices and radiological outcomes were frequently abnormal, and Health Related Quality of Life (HRQoL) reduced also. Long term diseases notably emphysema and COPD are not yet fully described in the contemporary literature.

CONCLUSION

This study underscores cardiopulmonary health morbidity and a reduced HRQoL among CDH survivors. Where not already available dedicated multidisciplinary follow-up clinics should be established to support these vulnerable patients transition safely into adulthood. Future research is therefore needed to investigate the risk factors for cardiopulmonary ill health and morbidity in CDH survivors.

TYPE OF STUDY

Systematic review of case control and cohort studies.

Perinatal Prognostic Factors for Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia: A Korean Single-Center Study

Purpose: This study aimed to identify prognostic factors based on treatment outcomes for congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) at a single-center and to identify factors that may improve these outcomes.Methods: Thirty-five neonates diagnosed with CDH between January 2011 and December 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. Pre- and postnatal factors were correlated and analyzed with postnatal clinical outcomes to determine the prognostic factors. Highest oxygenation index (OI) within 24 hours of birth was also calculated. Treatment strategy and outcome analysis of published literatures were also performed.Results: Overall survival rate of this cohort was 60%. Four patients were unable to undergo anesthesia and/or surgery. Three patients who commenced extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) post-surgery were non-survivors. Compared to the survivor group, the non-survivor group had a significantly higher occurrence of pneumothorax on the first day, need for high-frequency ventilator and inhaled nitric oxide use, and high OI within the first 24 hours. The non-survivor group showed an early trend towards the surgery timing and a greater number of patch closures. Area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.878 with a sensitivity of 76.2% and specificity of 92.9% at an OI cutoff value of 7.75.Conclusion: OI within 24 hours is a valuable predictor of survival. It is expected that the application of ECMO based on OI monitoring may help improve the opportunity for surgical repair, as well as the prognosis of CDH patients.

Clinical trials and outcome reporting in congenital diaphragmatic hernia overlook long-term health and functional outcomes-A plea for core outcomes

Aim

To review the selection, measurement and reporting of outcomes in studies of interventions in Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH).

Methods

We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials from 2000–2020 for randomised trials and observational studies. Outcomes reported were classified into seven key domains modelled on the patient journey.

Results

Our search yielded 118 papers; 27 were eligible. The most frequent domains measured were ‘short‐term markers of disease activity’ (17/27), whereas long‐term outcomes (3/27) and outcomes relating to functional health status (8/27) were reported infrequently. There was heterogeneity in the methods and timing of outcome reporting. Primary outcomes were varied and not always clearly stated.

Conclusion

Long‐term health and functional outcomes involving interventional studies in CDH are infrequently reported, which hinders the process of shared decision‐making and evidence‐based healthcare. A CDH core outcome set is needed to standardise outcome reporting that is relevant to both families and healthcare teams.

Genetically Modified Mouse Models of Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia: Opportunities and Limitations for Studying Altered Lung Development

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a relatively common and life-threatening birth defect, characterized by an abnormal opening in the primordial diaphragm that interferes with normal lung development. As a result, CDH is accompanied by immature and hypoplastic lungs, being the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with this condition. In recent decades, various animal models have contributed novel insights into the pathogenic mechanisms underlying CDH and associated pulmonary hypoplasia. In particular, the generation of genetically modified mouse models, which show both diaphragm and lung abnormalities, has resulted in the discovery of multiple genes and signaling pathways involved in the pathogenesis of CDH. This article aims to offer an up-to-date overview on CDH-implicated transcription factors, molecules regulating cell migration and signal transduction as well as components contributing to the formation of extracellular matrix, whilst also discussing the significance of these genetic models for studying altered lung development with regard to the human situation.

Respiratory syncytial virus bronchiolitis in congenital diaphragmatic hernia: A systematic review of prevalence rates and palivizumab prophylaxis

BACKGROUND

The seasonality of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) epidemics have been disrupted during the COVID-19 pandemic, possibly because of lockdowns and social restrictions reducing viral transmission. Given uncertainties around the severity of upcoming RSV bronchiolitis epidemics, debate exists whether palivizumab (RSV prophylaxis) should be administered to infants with Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH), who may be vulnerable due to lung hypoplasia and pulmonary hypertension.

AIM

To evaluate (1) if CDH infants have higher risk of admission with RSV bronchiolitis than infants in the general population; (2) if palivizumab prophylaxis may reduce this risk.

METHODS

We included all eligible studies examining the risk(s) of RSV-positive bronchiolitis requiring hospital admission in (1) CDH infants without palivizumab prophylaxis versus infants in the general population and (2) CDH infants with prophylaxis versus CDH infants without prophylaxis. The primary outcome evaluated was the risk of admission with RSV bronchiolitis. Data are reported descriptively and meta-analysed when appropriate.

RESULTS

Three eligible retrospective cohort studies were identified: one study found CDH to be an independent risk factor for RSV hospitalisation (odds ratio, 3.30; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.01-4.4); two studies compared RSV hospitalisation rates in CDH patients who had palivizumab versus those that did not. The pooled risk ratio was 1.11 (95% CI, 0.29-4.23; p = .88). Overall, the quality of evidence was considered poor and one study was industry funded.

CONCLUSION

Whether CDH infants are at particular risk of severe bronchiolitis remains unclear. There is no evidence from this current systematic review that CDH infants should routinely receive palivizumab vaccination prophylaxis.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of surgical morbidity of primary versus patch repaired congenital diaphragmatic hernia patients

Large studies comparing the surgical outcome of primary versus patch repair in congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) patients are rare. This study aims to evaluate the incidence of surgical complications in both types of CDH repair. PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane and Web of Science were searched for peer-reviewed articles. Studies on CDH between 1991 and August 2020 were systematically screened and meta-analyses were performed. Primary outcomes of this review were: haemorrhage, chylothorax, recurrences and small bowel obstruction (SBO). A total of 6436 abstracts were screened, after which 25 publications were included (2910 patients). Patch repaired patients have a 2.8 times higher risk on developing a recurrence (20 studies) and a 2.5 times higher risk on developing a chylothorax (five studies). Moreover, they have a two times higher risk on developing a SBO. No studies could be included that evaluated the incidence of surgical haemorrhage between these patients. Although the quality of the studies was relatively low, patch repaired patients have a higher risk on developing a recurrence, chylothorax and small bowel obstruction. Large prospective studies are required to adjust for severity of disease, to reveal the true causative factors in order to minimize the risk on these surgical complications in both types of patients.

Reproducibility of Lung and Liver Volume Measurements on Fetal Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Left-Sided Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia

INTRODUCTION

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) affects 1 in 3,000 live births and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality.

METHODS

A review of fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations was performed for fetuses with left CDH and normal lung controls. Image review and manual tracings were performed by 4 pediatric radiologists; right and left lung volumes in the coronal and axial planes as well as liver volume above and below the diaphragm in the coronal plane were measured. Intra- and interreviewer reproducibility was assessed using intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Bland-Altman analysis.

RESULTS

Excellent intra- and interreviewer reproducibility of the right and left lung volume measurements was observed in both axial planes (interreviewer ICC: right lung: 0.97, 95% CI: 0.95-0.99; left lung: 0.97, 95% CI: 0.95-0.98) and coronal planes (interreviewer ICC: right lung: 0.97, 95% CI: 0.95-0.98; left lung: 0.96, 95% CI: 0.93-0.98). Moderate-to-good interreviewer reproducibility was observed for liver volume above the diaphragm (ICC 0.7, 95% CI: 0.59-0.81). Liver volume below the diaphragm had a good-to-excellent interreviewer reproducibility (ICC 0.88, 95% CI: 9.82-0.93).

CONCLUSIONS

The present study demonstrated an excellent intra- and interreviewer reproducibility of MRI lung volume measurements and good-to-moderate inter- and intrareviewer reproducibility of liver volume measurements after standardization of the methods at our fetal center.

Fetal surgery

Fetal medicine is a super-specialty enterprise and a technology-driven field. The growth and interest in fetal surgery can be largely attributed to advances in fetal imaging and bespoke instruments for in utero intervention. Previously fatal fetal conditions are now being treated using open surgery, minimally invasive procedures, and percutaneous fetal technologies. Several fetal conditions, including myelomeningocele and twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome, have been tested rigorously in RCTs. However, as the specialty of fetal surgery grows, a robust evidence base with long-term follow-up is obligatory for every procedure. This article offers an overview of fetal surgery and antenatal intervention. As more cutting edge therapies come into clinical practice, growing public opinion and medical ethics will play a significant role in the future of this multidisciplinary specialty.

Pbx1, Meis1, and Runx1 Expression Is Decreased in the Diaphragmatic and Pulmonary Mesenchyme of Rats with Nitrofen-Induced Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia

INTRODUCTION

 Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) and associated pulmonary hypoplasia (PH) are thought to originate from mesenchymal defects in pleuroperitoneal folds (PPFs) and primordial lungs. Pre-B-cell leukemia homeobox 1 (Pbx1), its binding partner myeloid ecotropic integration site 1 (Meis1), and runt-related transcription factor 1 (Runx1) are expressed in diaphragmatic and lung mesenchyme, functioning as transcription cofactors that modulate mesenchymal cell proliferation. Furthermore, Pbx1 ^-/- mice develop diaphragmatic defects and PH similar to human CDH. We hypothesized that diaphragmatic and pulmonary Pbx1, Meis1, and Runx1 expression is decreased in the nitrofen-induced CDH model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

 Time-mated rats were exposed to nitrofen or vehicle on gestational day 9 (D9). Fetal diaphragms (n = 72) and lungs (n = 48) were microdissected on D13, D15, and D18, and were divided into control and nitrofen-exposed specimens. Diaphragmatic and pulmonary gene expression levels of Pbx1, Meis1, and Runx1 were analyzed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Immunofluorescence-double-staining for Pbx1, Meis1, and Runx1 was combined with mesenchymal/myogenic markers Gata4 and myogenin to evaluate protein expression.

RESULTS

 Relative mRNA expression of Pbx1, Meis1, and Runx1 was significantly decreased in PPFs (D13), developing diaphragms/lungs (D15), and muscularized diaphragms/differentiated lungs (D18) of nitrofen-exposed fetuses compared with controls. Confocal-laser-scanning-microscopy revealed markedly diminished Pbx1, Meis1, and Runx1 immunofluorescence in diaphragmatic and pulmonary mesenchyme, associated with less proliferating mesenchymal cells in nitrofen-exposed fetuses on D13, D15, and D18 compared with controls.

CONCLUSION

 Decreased Pbx1, Meis1, and Runx1 expression during diaphragmatic development and lung branching morphogenesis may reduce mesenchymal cell proliferation, causing malformed PPFs and disrupted airway branching, thus leading to diaphragmatic defects and PH in the nitrofen-induced CDH model.

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia-does the presence of a hernia sac improve outcome? A systematic review of published studies

Early reports have suggested survival benefits associated with a hernia sac in congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). However, these studies have included only small subsets of patients. This systematic review aimed to evaluate differences in outcomes of CDH newborns with and without a hernia sac. PubMed and Embase databases were searched using relevant key terms. Papers were independently reviewed by two authors with final selection approved by the senior author. Original search retrieved 537 papers; the final review included 8 studies (n = 837 patients). There were 168 CDH patients (20%) with a hernia sac with an overall survival of 93% vs 73% for CDH newborns without a sac (p < 0.001). Twenty-three percent of patients with a CDH sac required diaphragm patch repair vs 44% patients without a sac (p < 0.001). Pulmonary hypertension was manifested in 44% of CDH babies with a hernia sac vs 64% without a sac (p < 0.001). Three studies compared ECMO requirement: 15% with a hernia sac and 34% without sac, p < 0.001.Conclusion: This study shows significant survival benefits in newborns associated with presence of a CDH sac. This may be likely related to these infants having more favourable physiology with less severe pulmonary hypertension and/or smaller anatomical defects requiring primary closure only. What is Known: • Early reports have suggested survival benefits associated with a hernia sac in CDH. • Previous studies have included only a small number of patients. What is New: • A systematic review of published studies clearly shows that CDH newborns with a hernia sac have better overall survival outcomes and less severe pulmonary hypertension. • ECMO utilization and patch repair were also less often required in newborns with a hernia sac.

Longitudinal Follow-Up With Radiologic Screening for Recurrence and Secondary Hiatal Hernia in Neonates With Open Repair of Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia-A Large Prospective, Observational Cohort Study at One Referral Center

Objective: After neonatal repair of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) recurrence is the most severe surgical complication and reported in up to 50% after patch implantation. Previous studies are difficult to compare due to differences in surgical techniques and retrospective study design and lack of standardized follow-up or radiologic imaging. The aim was to reliably detect complication rates by radiologic screening during longitudinal follow-up after neonatal open repair of CDH and to determine possible risk factors. Methods: At our referral center with standardized treatment algorithm and follow-up program, consecutive neonates were screened for recurrence by radiologic imaging at defined intervals during a 12-year period. Results: 326 neonates with open CDH repair completed follow-up of a minimum of 2 years. 68 patients (21%) received a primary repair, 251 (77%) a broad cone-shaped patch, and 7 a flat patch (2%). Recurrence occurred in 3 patients (0.7%) until discharge and diaphragmatic complications in 28 (8.6%) thereafter. Overall, 38 recurrences and/or secondary hiatal hernias were diagnosed (9% after primary repair, 12.7% after cone-shaped patch; p = 0.53). Diaphragmatic complications were significantly associated with initial defect size (r = 0.26). In multivariate analysis left-sided CDH, an abdominal wall patch and age below 4 years were identified as independent risk factors. Accordingly, relative risks (RRs) were significantly increased [left-sided CDH: 8.5 (p = 0.03); abdominal wall patch: 3.2 (p < 0.001); age ≤4 years: 6.5 (p < 0.002)]. 97% of patients with diaphragmatic complications showed no or nonspecific symptoms and 45% occurred beyond 1 year of age. Conclusions: The long-term complication rate after CDH repair highly depends on surgical technique: a comparatively low recurrence rate seems to be achievable in large defects by implantation of a broad cone-shaped, non-absorbable patch. Longitudinal follow-up with regular radiologic imaging until adolescence is essential to reliably detecting recurrence to prevent acute incarceration and chronic gastrointestinal morbidity with their impact on prognosis. Based on our findings and literature review, a risk-stratified approach to diaphragmatic complications is proposed.

Surgical Complications in Children with CDH: A Multivariate Analysis

Introduction

Several medical and surgical improvements in the treatment of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) patients have led to a higher survival rate. However, some of these improvements also lead to an increased morbidity rate. This study aims to determine the contribution different medical and surgical treatments have had on the development of surgical complications.

Method

All CDH patients treated in a single centre between 2000 and 2015 were retrospectively evaluated. Multivariate logistic regression was used to estimate the independent effects of several treatment options that could influence the surgical outcome by adjustment for multiple risk factors.

Results

Sixty of the 197 surgically repaired CDH patients had surgical complications. There were more haemorrhagic complications in the ECMO compared to non-ECMO group (27% vs. 2%, p < 0.001). The use of inhaled nitric oxide was also significantly related to haemorrhage (OR = 13.0 (95% CI 1.1–159)). After adjustment for other risk factors, chylothorax was neither significantly associated with ECMO treatment (OR = 1.6 (95% CI 0.5–5.2) nor with patch repair (OR = 2.1: 95% CI 0.7–6.1). A recurrence occurred more often in patients with pulmonary hypertension (OR = 10.0 (95% CI 1.5–65.8) and after treatment with an abdominal patch (OR = 11.3: 95% CI 1.5–84.4).

Conclusion

ECMO treatment and the inhalation of nitric oxide are used in the most severe CDH patients but are associated with a higher risk on surgical haemorrhage. The recurrence rate is associated with both the use of an abdominal patch and the presence of pulmonary hypertension, regardless of medical treatment.

Rare Course of Bilateral Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Treated Thoracoscopically-Case Report

We present a rare case of metachronous bilateral congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) in a newborn with additional malformations: macroglossia, pectus excavatum, and confirmed Simpson-Golabi-Behmel syndrome. We performed a successful thoracoscopic subsequent repair with a patch of the bilateral type C CDH. Despite using insufflation that should cause bilateral pneumothorax at first procedure there was no clinical signs of such a one. Contralateral CDH diagnosis was possible only on the basis of the symptoms that occurred after the first operation. After 13 months the patient is without recurrence. In selected patients, staged thoracoscopy may be a safe and feasible method of bilateral CDH treatment.

Standardization and reproducibility of sonographic stomach position grades in fetuses with congenital diaphragmatic hernia

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the reproducibility of stomach position grading in congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) as proposed by Cordier et al and Basta et al after standardization of the methods at our center.

METHODS

We collected sonographic images from 23 fetuses with left-sided CDH at our center from 2010 to 2018. Nine operators (one maternal fetal medicine expert and eight sonographers) reviewed the selected images and graded the stomach position according to the methods of Cordier et al and Basta et al. We assessed the interoperator agreement with Fleiss's kappa statistics.

RESULTS

Overall agreement amongst all operators was moderate for both methods proposed by Cordier et al (k = 0.60, SE 0.07, 95% CI 0.47-0.73, P < .0001) and Basta et al (k = 0.60, SE 0.06, 95% CI 0.47-0.73, P < .0001). Interoperator agreement was moderate for grade 3 with the method by Cordier et al (k = 0.45, SE 0.09, 95% CI 0.27-0.64, P < .0001) and fair for grade 4 with the method by Basta et al (k = 0.33, SE 0.08, 95% CI 0.18-0.49 P < .0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study demonstrates a fair to moderate interoperator agreement of the stomach position grading methods proposed in the literature after standardization of the methods at our center. Further multicenter studies are needed to confirm our results.

One-year outcomes of infants born with congenital diaphragmatic hernia: a national population cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To report outcomes to 1 year, in infants born with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH), explore factors associated with infant mortality and examine the relationship between surgical techniques and postoperative morbidity.

DESIGN

Prospective national population cohort study.

SETTING

Paediatric surgical centres in the UK and Ireland.

METHOD

Data were collected to 1 year for infants with CDH live-born between 1 April 2009 to 30 September 2010. Factors associated with infant mortality are explored using logistic regression. Postoperative morbidity following patch versus primary closure, minimally invasive versus open surgery and biological versus synthetic patch material is described. Data are presented as n (%) and median (IQR).

RESULTS

Overall known survival to 1 year was 75%, 95% CI 68% to 81% (138/184) and postoperative survival 93%, 95% CI 88% to 97% (138/148). Female sex, antenatal diagnosis, use of vasodilators or inotropes, being small for gestational age, patch repair and use of surfactant were all associated with infant death. Infants undergoing patch repair had a high incidence of postoperative chylothorax (11/54 vs 2/96 in infants undergoing primary closure) and a long length of hospital stay (41 days, IQR 24-68 vs 16 days, IQR 10-25 in primary closure group). Infants managed with synthetic patch material had a high incidence of chylothorax (11/34 vs 0/19 with biological patch).

CONCLUSION

The majority of infant deaths in babies born with CDH occur before surgical correction. Female sex, being born small for gestational age, surfactant use, patch repair and receipt of cardiovascular support were associated with a higher risk of death. The optimum surgical approach, timing of operation and choice of patch material to achieve lowest morbidity warrants further evaluation.

Ultrasound evaluation of right diaphragmatic eventration and hernia

BACKGROUND

A hernia is due to a defect in the diaphragm. An eventration is due to a thinned diaphragm with no central muscle. Distinguishing right diaphragmatic hernia from eventration on chest radiographs can be challenging if no bowel loops are herniated above the diaphragm. Experience is limited with postnatal ultrasound (US) evaluation of diaphragmatic hernia or eventration.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate for specific US signs in the diagnosis of right diaphragmatic hernia and eventration.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We identified all patients (January 2007-December 2017) with right diaphragm US and surgery for eventration or hernia. We reviewed medical charts, and US images/reports for clinical presentation and diaphragm abnormalities. Surgical diagnosis was considered the reference standard.

RESULTS

Seventeen children (mean age: 5 months) had US examination before surgery for hernia (n=9) or eventration (n=8). The most common presentation was respiratory distress. In the US reports, hernia was correctly diagnosed in all patients and three patients with eventration were misdiagnosed as hernia, yielding 100% sensitivity and 62.5% specificity. In a retrospective evaluation of the US studies, a combination of folding of a free muscle edge with a narrow angle waist had 100% specificity for hernia and was seen in 7/9 children with hernia. Combination of a broad angle waist and hypoechoic strip of diaphragmatic muscle covering the waist had 100% specificity for eventration and was demonstrated in 4/8 children with eventration. Five of 17 patients (31.6%) had no specific sign that differentiated hernia from eventration.

CONCLUSION

On US, folding of the free edge of the diaphragm and a narrow angle waist are specific for hernia; a broad angle waist with muscle covering the elevated area is specific for eventration. Definitive differentiation between eventration and hernia may not be possible in about a third of patients.

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.

Comparison of early postnatal prediction models for survival in congenital diaphragmatic hernia

OBJECTIVE

To compare the PF-PCO₂ equation-partial pressure of arterial oxygen (PaO₂)/fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO₂) minus partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PCO₂)-to three other tools for postnatal prediction of survival in infants with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH).

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective analysis of 203 infants with CDH from 1 January 2003 to 30 June 2018. Area under the curve (AUC) analysis was performed for survival and secondary outcomes of survival without extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support (ECMO) and death despite ECMO. Predictive scores were calculated to determine cutoff for PF-PCO₂ score.

RESULTS

The PF-PCO₂ tool had the highest AUC (0.84 for survival, 0.92 for survival without ECMO, and 0.83 for death despite ECMO). PF-PCO₂ best predicted survival when >-60 and survival without ECMO when >+80. There was no optimal cutoff score for death despite ECMO.

CONCLUSION

The PF-PCO₂ tool best predicted postnatal survival in infants with CDH.

Early population-based outcomes of infants born with congenital diaphragmatic hernia

PURPOSE

This study aims to describe short-term outcomes of live-born infants with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) and to identify prognostic factors associated with early mortality.

DESIGN

A prospective population cohort study was undertaken between April 2009 and September 2010, collecting data on live-born infants with CDH from all 28 paediatric surgical centres in the UK and Ireland using an established surgical surveillance system. Management and outcomes are described. Prognostic factors associated with death before surgery are explored.

RESULTS

Two hundred and nineteen live-born infants with CDH were reported within the data collection period. There were 1.5 times more boys than girls (n=133, 61%). Thirty-five infants (16%) died without an operation. This adverse outcome was associated with female sex (adjusted OR (aOR) 3.96, 95% CI 1.66 to 9.47), prenatal diagnosis (aOR 4.99, 95% CI 1.31 to 18.98), and the need for physiological support in the form of inotropes (aOR 9.96, 95% CI 1.19 to 83.25) or pulmonary vasodilators (aOR 4.09, 95% CI 1.53 to 10.93). Significant variation in practice existed among centres, and some therapies potentially detrimental to infant outcomes were used, including pulmonary surfactant in 45 antenatally diagnosed infants (34%). Utilisation of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation was very low compared with published international studies (n=9/219, 4%). Postoperative 30-day survival was 98% for 182 infants with CDH who were adequately physiologically stabilised and underwent surgery.

CONCLUSION

This is the first British Isles population-based study reporting outcome metrics for infants born with CDH. 16% of babies did not survive to undergo surgery. Factors associated with poor outcome included female sex and prenatal diagnosis. Early postoperative survival in those who underwent surgical repair was excellent.

A new approach to risk stratification using fetal MRI to predict outcomes in congenital diaphragmatic hernia: the preliminary retrospective single institutional study

BACKGROUND

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a condition with a wide range of severity. Prenatal diagnosis is essential to optimize postnatal management, especially for severe cases. The lung to head ratio (LHR) and liver herniation estimated by prenatal ultrasound has been used as prenatal predictors in CDH. However, reliability of these factors remains to be proven and prediction of outcome from prenatal imaging is still challenging. We propose our new stratification system using lung to liver signal intensity ratio (LLSIR) in fetal MRI, which has been shown to be related to pulmonary maturation.

METHODS

Retrospective chart review was conducted on 25 infants with CDH treated from 2009 through 2016 in our hospital. We stratified patients according to fetal T2-weighted MRI as Grade I, detectable ipsilateral lung at the apex; Grade II, undetectable ipsilateral lung at the apex and contralateral LLSR ≥2.0; Grade III, undetectable ipsilateral lung at the apex and contralateral LLSR <2.0. To evaluate this stratification system, we analyzed survival, severity [inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) usage with or without extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO)], and requirement of patch closure.

RESULTS

All 15 patients survived in Grade I, while 2 out of 6 died in Grade II, and 3 out of 4 died in Grade III (P=0.003). Four were severe in Grade I, and all in Grade II and III who survived (P=0.007). One needed patch in Grade I, and all in Grade II and III (OR: 414,238,332; 95% CI, 0-∞). Liver herniation was noted in five patients, and significantly associated with survival (P=0.04), however, neither with severity (P=1.00) nor with the requirement of patch closure (P=0.52).

CONCLUSIONS

The risk stratification algorithm using contralateral LLSIR in fetal MRI could be useful and more reliable than liver herniation to predict survival, severity, and need of patch closure. Further investigation is warranted.

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia: a scientometric analysis of the global research activity and collaborative networks

Despite a growing interest to clinicians and scientists, there is no comprehensive study that examines the global research activity on congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). A search strategy for the Web of Science™ database was designed to identify scientific CDH publications. Research output of countries, institutions, individual authors, and collaborative networks was analyzed. Semi-qualitative research measures including citation rate and h-index were assessed. Choropleth mapping and network diagrams were employed to visualize results. A total of 3669 publications were found, originating from 76 countries. The largest number was published by the USA (n = 1250), the UK (n = 279), and Canada (n = 215). The USA combined the highest number of cooperation articles (n = 152), followed by Belgium (n = 115) and the Netherlands (n = 93). The most productive collaborative networks were established between UK/Belgium (n = 53), Belgium/Spain (n = 47), and UK/Spain (n = 34). Canadian publications received the highest average citation rate (22.8), whereas the USA had the highest country-specific h-index (72). Eighty-five (2.3%) articles were published by international multicenter consortiums and national research networks. The most productive institutions and authors were based in North America and Europe. Over the past decades, CDH research has increasingly become multidisciplinary and numerous innovative therapeutic strategies were introduced. CDH-related research has constantly been progressing, involving today many disciplines with main research endeavors concentrating in a few high-income countries. Recent advances in prenatal interventions and regenerative medicine therapy hold the promise of improving CDH outcome in the 21st century. International collaborations and translational research should be strengthened to allow further evolution in this field.

Predicting Survival of Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia on the First Day of Life

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to determine perinatal risk factors for 30-day mortality of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) patients and develop a prognostic index to predict 30-day mortality of CDH patients. Identifying risk factors that can prognosticate outcome is critical to obtain the best management practices for patients.

METHODS

A retrospective study was performed for patients who were diagnosed with CDH from November 2000 to August 2016. A total of 10 prenatal risk factors and 14 postnatal risk factors were analyzed. All postnatal variables were measured within 24 h after birth.

RESULTS

A total of 95 CDH patients were enrolled in this study, including 61 males and 34 females with mean gestational age of 38.86 ± 1.51 weeks. The overall 30-day survival rate was 63.2%. Multivariate analysis revealed that five factors (polyhydramnios, gestational age at diagnosis <25 weeks, observed-to-expected lung-to-head ratio ≤45, best oxygenation index in 24 h  >11, and severity of tricuspid regurgitation ≥ mild) were independent predictors of 30-day mortality of CDH. Using these five factors, a perinatal prognostic index for 30-day mortality was developed. Four predictive models (poor, bad, good, and excellent) of the perinatal prognostic index were constructed, and external validation was performed.

CONCLUSIONS

Awareness of risk factors is very important for predicting prognosis and managing patients. Five independent perinatal risk factors were identified in this study. A perinatal prognostic index was developed for 30-day mortality for patients with CDH. This index may be used to help manage CDH patients.

Reproducibility of Lung-to-Head Ratio Ultrasound Measurements in Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia

OBJECTIVES

This study investigated the reproducibility of standardization of lung-to-head ratio measurements in congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) at our center among sonographers after we standardized the method.

METHODS

We reviewed ultrasound images of 12 fetuses with CDH at Mayo Clinic from 2010 to 2016. Nine operators (1 maternal-fetal medicine specialist with experience in measuring the lung-to-head ratio and 8 sonographers), who were blinded to previous findings, reviewed 33 selected images from 12 fetuses with left CDH. The method for lung-to-head ratio measurement was standardized before starting the measurements. The lung-to-head ratio was assessed by different methods to obtain the lung areas: anteroposterior, longest, and area tracing. We evaluated the correlation between operators using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). We also compared agreement between the sonographers and a physician with experience in measuring the lung-to-head ratio using a Bland-Altman analysis.

RESULTS

The methods with the best interoperator reproducibility were the standardized anteroposterior lung-to-head ratio (ICC, 0.69) and the standardized lung-to-head ratio tracing (ICC, 0.65) compared to the longest lung-to-head ratio (ICC, 0.56). The standardized lung-to-head ratio tracing had the best agreement among sonographers and the physician (bias, 0.11; limits of agreement, -0.27 to +0.49) than the anteroposterior lung-to-head ratio (bias, 0.35; limits of agreement, -0.13 to + 0.83) and the longest lung-to-head ratio (bias, 0.27; limits of agreement, -0.35 to +0.89).

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrated that the lung-to-head ratio tracing method has high interoperator reproducibility and the best agreement among the operators at our center. Further multicenter studies are necessary to confirm our results.

Congenital diaphragmatic disease: An unusual presentation in adulthood. Case report

INTRODUCTION

Congenital diaphragmatic disease is a quite common condition that usually occurs in the neonatal period, and the diagnosis of congenital diaphragmatic disease in adulthood is rare.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 64-years-old Caucasian woman was admitted in emergency at our Department, due to a bowel obstruction and dyspnea. A CT-scan showed a diaphragmatic herniation in the left area, with malposition of dilated transverse and descending colon in the chest. An emergency laparatomy was performed, showing a toxic megacolon, in the absence of a true diaphragmatic hernia, and a left diaphragm and left liver hypoplasia. An intraoperative bronchoscopy revealed concomitant hypoplasia of the left lung. A subtotal colectomy with ileo-rectal anastomosis was performed. The postoperative course was uneventful. Histological examination demonstrated hyperplasia of the muscularis mucosae of the colon and cytoplasmic vacuolization of the Auerbach plexus ganglia. The karyotype genetic analysis excluded concomitant microdeletion or duplication syndromes.

DISCUSSION

To our knowledge, this seems to be the first reported case of toxic megacolon in a patient with congenital hypoplasia of the left bronchial-lung system, of the left liver, and of the left diaphragm.

CONCLUSION

The correct development of the diaphragm is essential for the neighboring organs. The observed clinical pattern could be related to a partial modification of neural crest cell detachment or migration, which could be responsible for bowel and diaphragm defects, even though it was not included in typical neural crest cell syndromes. Further researches should be performed in order to define the sporadic or syndromic source of these multiorgan defects.

Factors related to long-term surgical morbidity in congenital diaphragmatic hernia survivors

BACKGROUND

Patients born with a congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) have a high mortality and morbidity. After discharge, complications and long-term morbidity are still encountered. This study describes the factors related to the surgical long-term outcomes in CDH survivors.

METHODS

A cohort of CDH patients born between 2000 and 2014, with a minimum of two years follow up, were included in this retrospective study. Demographics, CDH specific characteristics, treatment, and long-term surgical outcome were evaluated using multivariate logistic regression analyses.

RESULTS

112 patients were included, with a mean follow up of 7.3 years (SD 3.8). The majority had primary repair, but 31% received patch repair. Recurrence was reported in 7% of all patients. However, recurrence risk increased for patients with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) treatment (ORadjusted: 6.3, 95% CI: 1.2-33.9). This risk was highest for patients needing both ECMO and patch repair (OR: 11.2, 95% CI: 2.3-54.1). Small bowel obstructions (SBO) were observed in 20% and was associated with patch repair (ORadjusted: 3.5, 95% CI: 1.2-10.0), but ECMO treatment seemed to reduce this risk (ORadjusted: 0.2, 95% CI: 0.0-1.0). Thoracic deformations (36%) was diagnosed most often after patch repair, especially when ECMO was needed (60%) as well.

CONCLUSIONS

This retrospective study shows that the incidence of surgical long-term morbidity of CDH is relatively high, with different factors accounting for this. Diaphragmatic hernia recurrence was strongest associated with ECMO treatment in combination with patch repair, while SBO's were associated with patch repair, with an unexpected protective effect of ECMO treatment.

TYPE OF STUDY

Retrospective comparative study - Level III evidence.

Ventricular Performance is Associated with Need for Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Newborns with Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia

OBJECTIVE

To compare echocardiography (ECHO) findings of patients with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) who required extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) to non-ECMO treated patients.

STUDY DESIGN

We reviewed clinical and ECHO data of newborns with CDH born between 2009 and 2016. Exclusions included major anomalies, genetic syndromes, or no ECHO prior to ECMO. Pulmonary hypertension was assessed by ductal shunting and tricuspid regurgitant jet. Speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) assessed function by quantifying deformation.

RESULTS

Patients with CDH (15 ECMO and 29 with no ECMO) were analyzed. Most patients had a left CDH (88.6%). Age at ECHO was similar between groups. Outborn status (P = .009) and liver position (P = .009) were associated with need for ECMO. Compared with non-ECMO patients, patients who required ECMO had significantly decreased left and right ventricular function by both conventional and STE measures, as well as decreased right and left ventricular output. The right ventricular eccentricity index was higher in ECMO vs non-ECMO patients (2.2 vs 1.8, P = .02). There was no difference in pulmonary hypertension between CDH groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Need for ECMO was associated with decreased left and right ventricular function, as assessed by standard and STE measures. There was no difference in pulmonary hypertension between non ECMO and ECMO patients. Abnormal cardiac function may explain nonresponse to pulmonary vasodilators in patients with CDH. Management strategies to improve cardiac function may reduce the need for ECMO in newborns with CDH.

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia in association with congenital short esophagus: A case report

RATIONALE

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) associated congenital anomalies are present in about 25%. Congenital short esophagus (CSE) is a relatively rare condition. Both CDH and congenital intrathoracic stomach caused by CSE can be diagnosed in utero. However, CSE can be easily misdiagnosed in utero.

PATIENT CONCERNS

We present a case of left CDH with CSE in a female neonate who was diagnosed at 24 weeks gestational age by antenatal ultrasound.

DIAGNOSES

The neonate with CDH and congenital intrathoracic stomach due to CSE was confirmed by operation. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GRED) occurred after operation.

INTERVENTIONS

The left diaphragm was repaired, and gastric fixation by gastropexy, gastric folding anti-reflux procedure and operation of longitudinal incision and transverse suture for pyloroplasty procedure was underwent. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GRED) occurred after operation and jejunal tube feeding was placed.

OUTCOMES

This patient is currently alive 12 months post-operation with GRED.

LESSONS

To our knowledge, this is the first documented case of this rare type of CDH combined with congenital intrathoracic stomach caused by CSE. This condition could not be surgically repaired due to the extremely short esophagus. Early recognition of intrathoracic stomach associated with CSE is important as it is associated with difficult management and significant postnatal complications. The prognosis is cautiously guarded, and the parents should be appropriately counseled.

Bilateral congenital diaphragmatic hernia: prognostic evaluation of a large international cohort

BACKGROUND

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a lethal birth defect, which occurs in 1:2000-3000 live births. Bilateral CDH is a rare form (1%), with a high mortality. This study presents the outcomes of the largest cohort of bilateral CDH patients.

METHODS

The records of patients with bilateral CDH from the Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Registry born between 1995 and 2015 were retrospectively analyzed to identify parameters associated with mortality.

RESULTS

Eighty patients with a bilateral CDH were identified. Overall mortality was 74% (n=59). Apgar scores at 1 and 5min were statistically lower in the non-survivors compared to the survivors (median 3.0 and 5.0, versus 6.5 and 8.0, respectively, p<0.001). All survivors were repaired (n=21), compared to 22% of the non-survivors (n=17). The type of repair was equally divided in the survivors (52% primary versus 48% patch), while non-survivors were mainly patch repaired (82% versus 12%). Nineteen were treated with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) (24%), only three of them survived. When calculating the risk on mortality for the patients who lived until repair, ECMO had an adjusted odds ratio for mortality of 10.8 (95% CI: 2.0-57.7) and patch repair 5.2 (95% CI: 0.8-34.9).

CONCLUSIONS

The treatment of bilateral CDH patients remains challenging with a high mortality rate. Lower Apgar-scores, ECMO (probably as a surrogate for the severity of disease), and patch repair were negatively associated with outcome.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV study.

Fetal Cardiac Impairment in Nitrofen-Induced Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia: Postmortem Microcomputed Tomography Imaging Study

INTRODUCTION

We assessed the post-mortem micro-CT utility to evaluate fetal cardiac impairment in nitrofen-induced congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH).

METHODS

At 9.5d postconception (dpc), pregnant rats were exposed to nitrofen. At +18 and +21dpc, fetuses were harvested by cesarean section. Postmortem micro-CT and autopsy were performed. Fetuses were assigned to three experimental groups: Control group (C), Nitrofen group (N, exposition to nitrofen without CDH), CDH group. Cardio-pulmonary indices were evaluated.

RESULTS

An accurate morphological evaluation of the lung and heart was obtained. Early cardiac impairment was present in the N and CDH groups. At term pregnancy, an increased maximum diameter and decreased minimum diameter of the ventricles and increased interventricular septal thickness were noted in CDH. Histology showed a myocardial "disarray" and an high density of mitotic myocytes in CDH at midgestation.

CONCLUSIONS

The potential utility of post-mortem fetal micro-CT examination in CDH was introduced. The results highlighted the presence of cardiac adaptation in affected fetuses.

Predicting outcomes in congenital diaphragmatic hernia

Identification of CDH infant populations at high risk for mortality postnatally may help to develop targeted care strategies, guide discussions surrounding palliation and contribute to standardizing reporting and benchmarking, so that care strategies at different centers can be compared. Clinical prediction rules are evidence-based tools that combine multiple predictors to estimate the probability that a particular outcome in an individual patient will occur. In CDH, a suitable clinical prediction rule can stratify high- and low-risk populations and provide the ability to tailor management strategies based on severity. The ideal prediction tool for infants born with CDH would be validated in a large population, generalizable, easily applied in a clinical setting and would clearly discriminate patients at the highest and lowest risk of death. To date, 4 postnatal major clinical prediction rules have been published and validated in the North American CDH population. These models contain variables such as birth weight, Apgar score, blood gases, as well as measures of pulmonary hypertension, and associated anomalies. In an era of standardized care plans and population-based strategies, the appropriate selection and application of a generalizable tool to provide an opportunity for benchmarking, policy creation, and centralizing the care of high-risk populations. A well-designed clinical prediction tool remains the most practical and expedient way to achieve these goals.

Addressing the causes of late mortality in infants with congenital diaphragmatic hernia

INTRODUCTION

Despite improvements of neonatal intensive care, mortality among patients born with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH), remains high, and there is a significant late mortality in this cohort.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the causes of death among 251 consecutive CDH patients treated at our institution during the last 26years period.

METHODS

Retrospective review of all causes of death between 1990 and 2015 of the CDH cohort prospectively collected in a database.

RESULTS

Of the 251 CDH patients treated in our department since 1990, 49 were not alive by the end of 2015. Thirty-six patients (14%) died before discharge, and 13 (5%) after the first care event. The mean age at death was 262days (±653days, median 34days). Eighty six % (42 cases) of the fatalities occurred during the first year of life, more than half of the patients died before 1month of age and only 13% after the age of 1year (7 patients) (late mortality). The causes of early mortality (before 1year of age) were mainly cardio-respiratory, whereas GI complications occurred in the late mortality group.

CONCLUSION

The most common cause of death among CDH patients is respiratory insufficiency and associated pulmonary hypertension, and most of the fatalities occur before 1year of age. Among older patients, gastrointestinal morbidity as cause of death is highly represented.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

II.

Risk factors for postoperative mortality in congenital diaphragmatic hernia: a single-centre observational study

BACKGROUND

The management of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a major challenge. The mortality is dependent on associated malformations, the severity of pulmonary hypoplasia, pulmonary hypertension and iatrogenic lung injury associated with aggressive mechanical ventilation. The aims of the study were to investigate the mortality over time in a single paediatric surgical centre, to compare the results with recent reports and to define the risk factors for mortality.

METHODS

The medical records of infants with CDH from two time periods: 1995-2005 and 2006-2016 were reviewed. Cox regression was used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

The study included 113 infants. The mortality rate was significantly decreased in the later time period, compared to the earlier, 4.4 and 17.9%, respectively. At the early time period five patients (7.5%) were treated with ECMO and in the later time period ECMO was used in three patients (6.5%). The mortality in ECMO-treated patients was 50% in both time periods. Prenatal diagnosis, intrathoracic liver, low Apgar score and low birth weight were defined as independent risk factors for mortality.

CONCLUSION

Despite no significant differences in the incidence of independent risk factors and the use of ECMO between the two time periods, mortality decreased over time. The mortality was lower than previously reported. The results indicate that there are many important factors involved in a successful outcome after CDH repair. Large multicentre studies are necessary to define those critical factors and to determine optimal treatment strategies.

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia: endotracheal fluid phospholipidic profile following tracheal occlusion in an experimental model

OBJECTIVE

To compare endotracheal fluid (EF) and amniotic fluid (AF) phospholipidic profile changes following tracheal occlusion (TO) in the congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) fetal lamb model, in order to support the efficacy of TO on lung maturity.

METHODS

A diaphragmatic defect was induced at 70 days' gestation, TO was carried out at day 102 and cesarean section at 136 days' gestation. EF and AF samples, collected at delivery, were evaluated using mass spectrometry (the analysis focused on palmitoyloleoyl-phosphatidylcholine [POPC, PC(18:1/16:0)], dipalmitoyl-phosphatidylcholine [DPPC, PC(16:0/16:0)] and sphingomyelins [SMs]).

RESULTS

The effects of CDH and TO were different on AF and EF. POPC levels were higher than DPPC levels in AF of healthy lambs. Following induction of the diaphragmatic malformation, an evident decrease in POPC was noted, while a substantial return to normal POPC levels and an increased DPPC peak were prompted by the TO. After CDH induction, a decrease in N-palmitoyl-D-sphingomyelin [SM(d18:1/16:0)] was revealed (P<0.01) and an increased peak in SMs in AF was prompted by the TO (P=0.05). While the most represented phosphatidylcholine (PC) species in EF of healthy lambs was DPPC, CDH induced a decrease in the DPPC peak and treatment with TO induced its partial recovery. SMs were detectable only in healthy EF samples.

CONCLUSION

The phospholipid recovery profile following TO suggests the potential role of this therapy in restoring processes involved in surfactant-mediated lung maturation, even though other interactions involved in AF turnover should be considered. Moreover, these metabolites could be used as biomarkers of fetal pulmonary development.

Expression of Prx1 and Tcf4 is decreased in the diaphragmatic muscle connective tissue of nitrofen-induced congenital diaphragmatic hernia

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Pleuroperitoneal folds (PPFs) are the source of the primordial diaphragm's muscle connective tissue (MCT), and developmental mutations have been shown to result in congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). The protein paired-related homeobox 1 (Prx1) labels migrating PPF cells and stimulates expression of transcription factor 4 (Tcf4), a novel MCT marker that controls morphogenesis of the fetal diaphragm. We hypothesized that diaphragmatic Prx1 and Tcf4 expression is decreased in the nitrofen-induced CDH model.

METHODS

Time-mated rats were exposed to either nitrofen or vehicle on gestational day 9 (D9). Fetal diaphragms were microdissected on D13, D15, and D18, and divided into control and nitrofen-exposed specimens. Gene expression levels of Prx1 and Tcf4 were analyzed by qRT-PCR. Immunofluorescence double staining for Prx1 and Tcf4 was performed to evaluate protein expression and localization.

RESULTS

Relative mRNA expression of Prx1 and Tcf4 was significantly downregulated in PPFs (D13), developing diaphragms (D15) and fully muscularized diaphragms (D18) of nitrofen-exposed fetuses compared to controls. Confocal laser scanning microscopy revealed markedly diminished Prx1 and Tcf4 expression in diaphragmatic MCT of nitrofen-exposed fetuses on D13, D15, and D18 compared to controls.

CONCLUSIONS

Decreased expression of Prx1 and Tcf4 in the fetal diaphragm may cause defects in the PPF-derived MCT, leading to development of CDH in the nitrofen model.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 2c (Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine, Oxford).

The Surgical Correction of Congenital Deformities: The Treatment of Diaphragmatic Hernia, Esophageal Atresia and Small Bowel Atresia

BACKGROUND

More than half of all congenital deformities can be detected in utero. The initial surgical correction is of paramount importance for the achievement of good long-term results with low surgical morbidity and mortality.

METHODS

Selective literature review and expert opinion.

RESULTS

Congenital deformities are rare, and no controlled trials have been performed to determine their optimal treatment. In this article, we present the prenatal assessment, treatment, and long-term results of selected types of congenital deformity. Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) affects one in 3500 live-born infants, while esophageal atresia affects one in 3000 and small-bowel atresia one in 5000 to 10,000. If a congenital deformity is detected and its prognosis can be reliably inferred from a prenatal assessment, the child should be delivered at a specialized center (level 1 perinatal center). The associated survival rates are 60-80% after treatment for CDH and well over 90% after treatment for esophageal or small-bowel atresia. Despite improvements in surgical correction over the years, complications and comorbidities still affect 20-40% of the treated children. These are not limited to surgical complications in the narrow sense, such as recurrence, postoperative adhesions and obstruction, stenoses, strictures, and recurrent fistulae, but also include pulmonary problems (chronic lung disease, obstructive and restrictive pulmonary dysfunction), gastrointestinal problems (dysphagia, gastro-esophageal reflux, impaired intestinal motility), and failure to thrive. Moreover, the affected children can develop emotional and behavioral disturbances. Minimally invasive surgery in experienced hands yields results as good as those of conventional surgery, as long as proper selection criteria are observed.

CONCLUSION

Congenital deformities should be treated in recognized centers with highly experienced interdisciplinary teams. As no randomized trials of surgery for congenital deformities are available, longitudinal studies and registries will be very important in the future.

Decreased expression of hepatocyte growth factor in the nitrofen model of congenital diaphragmatic hernia

PURPOSE

Pleuroperitoneal folds (PPFs) are essential for normal diaphragmatic development, representing the only source of the diaphragm's muscle connective tissue. Hepatocyte growth factor (Hgf), which is secreted in PPFs, plays a crucial role in the formation of the muscular diaphragmatic components by regulating the migration of myogenic progenitor cells into the primordial diaphragm. Hgf is also a known downstream target of Gata4 and it has been demonstrated that the expression of Hgf was significantly downregulated in PPF cells of Gata4 knockouts with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). Furthermore, mutations in PPF-derived cells have been shown to result in CDH. We hypothesized that Hgf expression is decreased in developing diaphragms of fetal rats with nitrofen-induced CDH.

METHODS

Timed-pregnant rats were exposed to either nitrofen or vehicle on gestational day 9 (D9). Fetuses were harvested on selected time-points D13, D15 and D18. Dissected diaphragms (n = 72) were divided into control and nitrofen-exposed specimens (n = 12 per time-point and experimental group, respectively). Diaphragmatic gene expression of Hgf was analyzed by qRT-PCR. Immunofluorescence double staining for Hgf and the mesenchymal marker Gata4 or muscular progenitor marker Myogenin was performed to evaluate protein expression and localization in fetal diaphragms.

RESULTS

Relative mRNA expression of Hgf was significantly downregulated in PPFs of nitrofen-exposed fetuses on D13 (3.08 ± 1.46 vs. 5.24 ± 1.93; p < 0.05), developing diaphragms of nitrofen-exposed fetuses on D15 (2.01 ± 0.79 vs. 4.10 ± 1.50; p < 0.05) and fully muscularized diaphragms of nitrofen-exposed fetuses on D18 (1.60 ± 0.78 vs. 3.21 ± 1.89; p < 0.05) compared to controls. Confocal laser scanning microscopy revealed markedly diminished diaphragmatic immunofluorescence of Hgf in nitrofen-exposed fetuses on D13, D15 and D18 compared to controls, which was associated with disruptions in muscle connective tissue formation and reduced myogenic progenitor cell invasion.

CONCLUSION

Decreased diaphragmatic expression of Hgf may disturb the formation of muscle connective tissue in PPFs and thus prevent essential migration of muscle progenitor cells into the developing diaphragm, leading to diaphragmatic defects in the nitrofen CDH model.

An evaluation of the role of concomitant anomalies on the outcomes of fetuses with congenital diaphragmatic hernia

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of various types of associated anomalies on CDH mortality and morbidity.

METHODS

All CDH patients at a tertiary care center from January 2004 to January 2014 were reviewed retrospectively. Isolated CDH was defined as CDH without any associated anomalies. Cardiac anomalies were stratified into minor and major based on the Risk Adjustment for Congenital Heart Surgery-1 (RACHS-1) scoring system. Other anatomic anomalies requiring intervention in the perinatal period were classified as major anomalies. The outcomes of interest were 6-month mortality as well as pulmonary and gastrointestinal morbidity.

RESULTS

Of 189 CDH patients, 93 (49%) had isolated CDH. Others had: cardiac anomalies alone (n=47, 25%), genetic anomalies (n=28, 15%), structural anomalies alone (n=18, 10%), and both cardiac and genetic anomalies (n=20, 11%). Fifty (26.5%) patients were dead before six months of age. Mortality rate at 6months was higher in patients with genetic and major cardiac anomalies. A major cardiac anomaly was independently associated with a 102-fold increased risk of mortality at 6months (95%CI: 3.1-3402). Pulmonary morbidity was increased in patients with genetic, major cardiac, and major structural anomalies, while gastrointestinal morbidity was higher in patients with major structural anomalies alone.

CONCLUSION

Major cardiac and genetic anomalies were associated with increased 6-month mortality in CDH patients. However, the association with minor cardiac anomalies and/or structural anomalies did not affect mortality and morbidity of CDH patients. The presence of minor anomalies should not adversely impact their perinatal management or consideration for in-utero therapy.

Why do we need more data on MR volumetric measurements of the fetal lung?

Fetal lung hypoplasia is associated with a series of congenital anomalies, particularly the congenital diaphragmatic hernia. Evaluation of the severity of the lung hypoplasia is important for parental counseling, assessment of prognosis and planning of postnatal management. Although a large number of studies have been performed to measure fetal lung volumes in order to predict outcome, there are little data on fetuses younger than 24 weeks of gestation, the age when parental counseling is crucial if termination is considered. Few studies have evaluated prognosis of lung hypoplasia in fetuses with congenital chest anomalies other than congenital diaphragmatic hernia. We review the studies on measurements of the fetal lung volumes by MRI.

Risk-stratification of severity for infants with CDH: Prenatal versus postnatal predictors of outcome

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to compare the predication accuracy of a newly described postnatally-based clinical prediction model to fetal imaging-based predictors of mortality for infants with CDH.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective review of all CDH patients treated at a comprehensive fetal care center from January 2004 to January 2014. Prenatal data reviewed included lung-to-head ratio (LHR), observed/expected-total fetal lung volume (O/E-TFLV), and percent liver herniation (%LH). Based on the postnatal prediction model, neonates were categorized as low, intermediate, and high risk of death. The primary outcome was 6-month mortality.

RESULTS

Of 176 CDH patients, 58 had a major cardiac anomaly, and 28 had a genetic anomaly. Patients with O/E-TFLV <35% and %LH >20% were at increased risk for mortality (44% and 36%, respectively). There was a significant difference in mortality between low, intermediate, and high-risk groups (4% vs. 22% vs. 51%; p<0.001). On multivariate regression, the O/E-TFLV and postnatal-based mortality risk score were the two independent predictors of 6-month mortality.

CONCLUSION

The CDH Study Group postnatal predictive model provides good discrimination among three risk groups in our patient cohort. The prenatal MRI-based O/E-TFLV is the strongest prenatal predictor of 6-month mortality in infants with CDH and will help guide prenatal counseling and discussions regarding fetal intervention and perinatal management.

Differences in Outcomes in Prenatally Diagnosed Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Compared to Postnatal Detection: A Single-Center Experience

Objectives: To compare outcomes in pregnancies with a prenatal detection of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) with children diagnosed after birth, treated at the same institution, and to determine the ability to predict prognosis through measurements of the observed to expected lung-to-head ratio (O/E LHR). Methods: This is a retrospective review of all children with CDH treated at our institution during 2006-2014. We compared outcomes of infants referred for surgery after postnatal diagnosis with outcomes of infants with prenatally diagnosed CDH. Results: In the prenatal group, O/E LHR was significantly different between survivors and deceased patients, with a cutoff at 35% O/E LHR. Survival to discharge and 1-year survival were significantly higher in the postnatal group that required intubation within 24 h; i.e., 92 and 89% versus 85 and 73% in the prenatal group (p < 0.05). There was less need for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), 41 versus 60%, and patch, 41 versus 75% (p < 0.001), in the postnatal group with early diagnosis compared with the prenatal group, respectively. Conclusion: Children with prenatally diagnosed CDH represent a population with a more severe condition compared to infants diagnosed after birth. They have poorer outcomes with higher needs for ECMO or use of patch, and lower survival rates were observed at an O/E LHR below 35%.

Perinatal Thoracic Mass Lesions: Pre- and Postnatal Imaging

Chest masses present a common problem in the perinatal period. Advances in prenatal ultrasound, supplemented by fetal magnetic resonance imaging, now allow early detection and detailed characterization of many thoracic lesions in utero. As such, in asymptomatic infants, assessment with postnatal computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging can often be delayed for several months until the time at which surgery is being contemplated. Bronchopulmonary malformations comprise most of the thoracic masses encountered in clinical practice. However, a variety of other pathologies can mimic their appearances or produce similar effects such as hypoplasia of a lung or both lungs. Understanding of the key differentiating clinical and imaging features can assist in optimizing prognostication and timely management.