Congenital diaphragmatic hernia: a meta-analysis of mortality factors

Prenatal diagnosis and risk stratification of congenital diaphragmatic hernia

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a rare heterogenous disorder with varying degrees of severity. Infant survival rates in high-income countries are approaching 80% in isolated CDH; however, over 50% will have long-term morbidities. Advanced antenatal imaging, including ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging, has made it possible to prognosticate severity of CDH and to stratify risk when counseling expectant parents. Risk stratification can also better prepare healthcare teams to enable optimal neonatal management, and provide options for fetal intervention or, where legally permitted, pregnancy termination. Factors that may affect the immediate and long-term prognosis for CDH include prenatal diagnosis, gestational age at detection and delivery, side of the defect, presence of additional structural or genetic abnormalities, defect size, estimation of fetal lung volume, the extent of visceral herniation, and the delivery center's experience in caring for neonates with CDH. Optimizing the outcome for families and infants begins with an early prenatal diagnosis followed by referral to a diverse and inclusive multidisciplinary center with CDH expertise. Prediction of disease severity is supported by accurate fetal imaging and comprehensive genetic testing, and allows the care team to provide realistic outcome expectations during the counseling of expectant parents of all racial and ethnic backgrounds.

Timing of magnetic resonance imaging in pregnancy for outcome prediction in congenital diaphragmatic hernia

PURPOSE

To evaluate the impact of the timing of MRI on the prediction of survival and morbidity in patients with CDH, and whether serial measurements have a beneficial value.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study was conducted in two perinatal centers, in Germany and Italy. It included 354 patients with isolated CDH having at least one fetal MRI. The severity was assessed with the observed-to-expected total fetal lung volume (o/e TFLV) measured by two experienced double-blinded operators. The cohort was divided into three groups according to the gestational age (GA) at which the MRI was performed (< 27, 27-32, and  > 32 weeks' gestation [WG]). The accuracy for the prediction of survival at discharge and morbidity was analyzed with receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. Multiple logistic regression analyses and propensity score matching examined the population for balance. The effect of repeated MRI was evaluated in ninety-seven cases.

RESULTS

There were no significant differences in the prediction of survival when the o/e TFLV was measured before 27, between 27 and 32, and after 32 WG (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.77, 0.79, and 0.77, respectively). After adjustment for confounding factors, it was seen, that GA at MRI was not associated with survival at discharge, but the risk of mortality was higher with an intrathoracic liver position (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 0.30, 95% confidence interval [95%CI] 0.12-0.78), lower GA at birth (aOR 1.48, 95%CI 1.24-1.78) and lower o/e TFLV (aOR 1.13, 95%CI 1.06-1.20). ROC curves showed comparable prediction accuracy for the different timepoints in pregnancy for pulmonary hypertension, the need of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, and feeding aids. Serial measurements revealed no difference in change rate of the o/e TFLV according to survival.

CONCLUSION

The timing of MRI does not affect the prediction of survival rate or morbidity as the o/e TFLV does not change during pregnancy. Clinicians could choose any gestational age starting mid second trimester for the assessment of severity and counseling.

Epidemiology of congenital diaphragmatic hernia among 24 million Chinese births: a hospital-based surveillance study

BACKGROUND

The prevalence of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) varies across countries, with limited information available on its epidemiology in China. Our study aimed to investigate the prevalence, time trends, and perinatal outcomes of CDH in China, as well as its associated malformations and potential associations with maternal and infant characteristics.

METHODS

This study included all birth and CDH cases from the Chinese Birth Defects Monitoring Network between 2007 and 2019, with CDH cases classified as either isolated or associated. We employed the joinpoint regression model to calculate the trends of prevalence and the annual percent change, with Poisson regression used for adjusted prevalence rate ratios. A P value ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

A total of 4397 CDH cases were identified among 24,158,029 births in the study period, yielding prevalence rates of 1.82, 1.13 and 0.69 per 10,000 for overall, isolated, and associated CDH, respectively. The prevalence of each type of CDH increased over time. The prevalence of overall CDH varied significantly by infant sex (male vs. female, 1.91/10,000 vs. 1.63/10,000), maternal residence (urban vs. rural, 2.13/10,000 vs. 1.45/10,000), maternal age (< 20 years, 1.31/10,000; 20-24 years, 1.63/10,000; 25-29 years, 1.80/10,000; 30-34 years, 1.87/10,000; ≥ 35 years, 2.22/10,000), and geographic region (central, 1.64/10,000; east, 2.45/10,000; west, 1.37/10,000). Cardiovascular anomalies were the most common malformations associated with CDH. Infants with associated CDH had a higher risk of premature birth and perinatal death than those with isolated CDH.

CONCLUSION

The increasing prevalence and high perinatal mortality rate of CDH highlight the need for further etiological, epidemiological, and clinical studies among the Chinese population. Video Abstract.

Fetoscopic Tracheal Occlusion for Isolated Severe Left Diaphragmatic Hernia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background: We aimed to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the fetoscopic tracheal occlusion in patients with isolated severe and left-sided diaphragmatic hernia. Methods: Cochrane Library, Embase, and PubMed (Medline) databases were searched from inception to February 2024 with no filters or language restrictions. We included studies evaluating the outcomes of fetoscopic intervention compared to expectant management among patients with severe congenital diaphragmatic hernia exclusively on the left side. A random-effects pairwise meta-analysis was performed using RStudio version 4.3.1. Results: In this study, we included 540 patients from three randomized trials and five cohorts. We found an increased likelihood of neonatal survival associated with fetoscopic tracheal occlusion (Odds Ratio, 5.07; 95% Confidence Intervals, 1.91 to 13.44; p < 0.01) across general and subgroup analyses. Nevertheless, there were higher rates of preterm birth (OR, 5.62; 95% CI, 3.47-9.11; p < 0.01) and preterm premature rupture of membranes (OR, 7.13; 95% CI, 3.76-13.54; p < 0.01) in fetal endoscopic tracheal occlusion group compared to the expectant management. Conclusions: Our systematic review and meta-analysis demonstrated the benefit of fetoscopic tracheal occlusion in improving neonatal and six-month postnatal survival in fetuses with severe left-sided CDH. Further studies are still necessary to evaluate the efficacy of tracheal occlusion for isolated right-sided CDH, as well as the optimal timing to perform the intervention.

Accuracy of Estimated Fetal Weight Assessment in Fetuses with Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia-Is the Hadlock Formula a Reliable Tool?

Objectives: Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is defined as organ protrusion from the abdominal to the thoracic cavity. The Hadlock formula is the most commonly used tool for calculating estimated fetal weight (EFW). The anatomical nature of CDH usually leads to underestimation of the abdominal circumference, resulting in underestimation of fetal weight. Accurate weight estimation is essential before birth for counselling, preparation before surgery and ECMO. The research is made to compare the accuracy of Hadlock's formula and Faschingbauer's formula for fetal weight estimation in CDH fetuses population. Methods: In our study, we investigated differences between EFW and actual birthweight in 42 fetuses with CDH as compared to 80 healthy matched controls. EFW was calculated using the Hadlock formula and a recently introduced formula described by Faschingbauer et al., which was tailored for fetuses with CDH. Additionally, both of the formulas were adjusted for the interval between the ultrasound and delivery for both of the groups. Results: The majority of hernias were left-sided (92.8% vs. 7.2%). EFW adjusted for the interval between the ultrasound and delivery had the highest correlation with the actual birthweight in both, study group and controls. We compared the results for both tools and found the Hadlock formula to predict birthweight in CDH children with a 7.8 ± 5.5% error as compared to 7.9 ± 6.5% error for the Faschingbauer's formula. Conclusions: The Hadlock formula adjusted for the interval between the ultrasound and delivery is a more precise method of calculating EFW in fetuses with CDH. Routine biometry scan using Hadlock's formula remains reliable for predicting birthweight.

Microinjection With Nanoparticles to Deliver Drugs in Prenatal Lung Explants - A Pilot Study for Prenatal Therapy in Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia

BACKGROUND

Fetoscopic endoluminal tracheal occlusion (FETO) improves the survival rate in fetuses with severe congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). We hypothesize that prenatal therapies into the trachea during FETO can further improve outcomes. Here, we present an ex vivo microinjection technique with rat lung explants to study prenatal therapy with nanoparticles.

METHODS

We used microsurgery to isolate lungs from rats on embryonic day 18. We injected chitosan nanoparticles loaded with fluorescein (FITC) into the trachea of the lung explants. We compared the difference in biodistribution of two types of nanoparticles, functionalized IgG-conjugated nanoparticles (IgG-nanoparticles) and bare nanoparticles after 24 h culture with immunofluorescence (IF). We used IF to mark lung epithelial cells with E-cadherin and to investigate an apoptosis (Active-caspase 3) and inflammatory marker (Interleukin, IL-6) and compared its abundance between the two experimental groups and control lung explants.

RESULTS

We detected the presence of nanoparticles in the lung explants, and the relative number of nanoparticles to cells was 2.49 fold higher in IgG-nanoparticles than bare nanoparticles (p < 0.001). Active caspase-3 protein abundance was similar in the control, bare nanoparticles (1.20 fold higher), and IgG-nanoparticles (1.34 fold higher) groups (p = 0.34). Similarly, IL-6 protein abundance was not different in the control, bare nanoparticles (1.13 fold higher), and IgG-nanoparticles (1.12 fold higher) groups (p = 0.33).

CONCLUSIONS

Functionalized nanoparticles had a higher presence in lung cells and this did not result in more apoptosis or inflammation. Our proof-of-principle study will guide future research with therapies to improve lung development prenatally.

LEVELS OF EVIDENCE

N/A TYPE OF STUDY: Animal and laboratory study.

Delivery Room Resuscitation of Infants with Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia: Lessons Learned through Video Review

INTRODUCTION

Delivery room (DR) interventions for infants with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) are not well described. This study sought to describe timing and order of DR interventions and identify system factors impacting CDH DR resuscitations using a human factors framework.

METHODS

Single center observational study of video recorded CDH DR resuscitations documenting timing and order of interventions. The team used the Systems Engineering Initiative for Patient Safety (SEIPS) model to identify system factors impacting DR resuscitations and time to invasive ventilation.

RESULTS

We analyzed 31 video recorded CDH resuscitations. We observed variability in timing and order of resuscitation tasks. The 'Internal Environment' and 'Tasks' components of the SEIPS model were prominent factors affecting resuscitation efficiency; significant room and bed spatial constraints exist, and nurses have a significant task burden. Additionally, endotracheal tube preparation was a prominent barrier to timely invasive ventilation.

CONCLUSION

Video review revealed variation in event timing and order during CDH resuscitations. Standardization of room set-up, equipment, and event order and reallocation of tasks facilitate more efficient intubation and ventilation, representing targets for CDH DR improvement initiatives. This work emphasizes the utility of rigorous human factors review to identify areas for improvement during DR resuscitation.

The RNA-binding protein quaking is upregulated in nitrofen-induced congenital diaphragmatic hernia lungs at the end of gestation

BACKGROUND

The RNA-binding protein Quaking (QKI) increases during epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and its expression is controlled by microRNA-200 family members. Here, we aimed to describe the expression of QKI in the developing lungs of control and nitrofen-induced congenital diaphragmatic hernia lungs (CDH).

METHODS

To investigate the expression of QKI, we dissected lungs from control and nitrofen-induced CDH rats on embryonic day 15, 18, 21 (E15, E18, E21). We performed immunofluorescence (IF) and quantitative reverse transcription PCR (RT-qPCR) for QKI expression. Additionally, we assessed Interleukin-6 (IL-6) abundance using IF.

RESULTS

On E21, IF showed that the abundance of all three QKI isoforms and IL-6 protein was higher in CDH lungs compared to control lungs (QKI5: p = 0.023, QKI6: p = 0.006, QKI7: p = 0.014, IL-6: p = 0.045, respectively). Furthermore, RT-qPCR data showed increased expression of QKI5, QKI6, and QKI7 mRNA in E21 nitrofen lungs by 1.63 fold (p = 0.001), 1.63 fold (p = 0.010), and 1.48 fold (p = 0.018), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data show an increase in the abundance and expression of QKI at the end of gestation in nitrofen-induced CDH lungs. Therefore, a disruption in the regulation of QKI during the late stage of pregnancy could be associated with the pathogenesis of abnormal lung development in CDH.

Prenatal MRI assessment of mediastinal shift angle as a feasible and effective risk stratification tool in isolated right-sided congenital diaphragmatic hernia

OBJECTIVES

To develop a mediastinal shift angle (MSA) measurement method applicable to right-sided congenital diaphragmatic hernia (RCDH) in fetal MRI and to validate the predictive value of MSA in RCDH.

METHODS

Twenty-seven fetuses with isolated RCDH and 53 controls were included in our study. MSA was measured on MRI axial image at the level of four-chamber view of the fetal heart. The angle between the sagittal midline landmark line and the left boundary landmark line touching tangentially the lateral wall of the left ventricle was used to quantify MSA for RCDH. Appropriate statistical analyses were performed to determine whether MSA can be regarded as a valid predictive tool for postnatal outcomes. Furthermore, predictive performance of MSA was compared with that of lung area to head circumference ratio (LHR), observed/expected LHR (O/E LHR), total fetal lung volume (TFLV), and observed/expected TFLV (O/E TFLV).

RESULTS

MSA was significantly higher in the RCDH group than in the control group. MSA, LHR, O/E LHR, TFLV, and O/E TFLV were all correlated with postnatal survival, pulmonary hypertension (PH), and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) therapy (p < 0.05). Value of the AUC demonstrated good predictive performance of MSA for postnatal survival (0.901, 95%CI: (0.781-1.000)), PH (0.828, 95%CI: (0.661-0.994)), and ECMO therapy (0.813, 95%CI: (0.645-0.980)), which was similar to O/E TFLV but slightly better than TFLV, O/E LHR, and LHR.

CONCLUSIONS

We developed a measurement method of MSA for RCDH for the first time and demonstrated that MSA could be used to predict postnatal survival, PH, and ECMO therapy in RCDH.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT

Newly developed MRI assessment method of fetal MSA in RCDH offers a simple and effective risk stratification tool for patients with RCDH.

KEY POINTS

• We developed a measurement method of mediastinal shift angle for right-sided congenital diaphragmatic hernia for the first time and demonstrated its feasibility and reproducibility. • Mediastinal shift angle can predict more prognostic information other than survival in right-sided congenital diaphragmatic hernia with good performance. • Mediastinal shift angle can be used as a simple and effective risk stratification tool in right-sided congenital diaphragmatic hernia to improve planning of postnatal management.

Pulmonary artery diameter ratio as a prognostic indicator of congenital diaphragmatic hernia

Background

Following on from an earlier study published in 2008 about left pulmonary artery (LPA) flow measured on serial echocardiography being strongly prognostic in left-sided congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) and the ratio of LPA to right pulmonary artery (RPA) diameters being a simple and reliable indicator for commencing nitric oxide (NO) therapy, the ratio of LPA:RPA diameters (PA ratio or PAR) was hypothesized to possibly reflect cardiopulmonary stresses accompanying CDH better.

Methods

Subjects with isolated left-sided CDH treated between 2007 and 2020 at a single pediatric surgical center were recruited and classified according to survival. Data obtained retrospectively for subject demographics, clinical course, LPA/RPA diameters, and PAR were compared between survivors and non-survivors. The value of PAR for optimizing the prognostic value of PA diameter data in CDH were analyzed with receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis.

Results

Of 65 subjects, there were 54 survivors (82.3%) and 11 non-survivors (17.7%); 7 of 11 non-survivors died before surgical repair could be performed. Mean PAR for survivors (0.851±0.152) was significantly higher than for non-survivors (0.672±0.108) (p=0.0003). Mean PAR for non-survivors was not affected by surgical repair. Characteristics of survivors were: LPA ≥2 mm (n=52 of 54; mean PAR=0.866±0.146) and RPA ≥3 mm (n=46 of 54; mean PAR=0.857±0.152). Non-survivors with similar LPA and RPA diameters to survivors had significantly lower mean PAR. ROC curve cut-off for PAR was 0.762. Subjects with high PAR (≥0.762) required high-frequency oscillatory ventilation/NO less than subjects with low PAR (<0.762) (p=0.0244 and p=0.0485, respectively) and subjects with high PAR stabilized significantly earlier than subjects with low PAR (1.71±0.68 days vs 3.20±0.87 days) (p<0.0001).

Conclusions

PAR would appear to be strongly correlated with clinical outcome in CDH and be useful for planning management of cardiopulmonary instability in CDH.

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.

Post-operative anterior diaphragmatic hernias in children with Trisomy 21 after cardiac surgery

Morgagni hernias account for less than 5% of congenital diaphragmatic hernias. They are characteristically retrosternal and bilateral, with right-sided predominance. An association between Trisomy 21 and diaphragmatic hernias resembling Morgagni hernia has been reported, but the effect of cardiac surgery on its formation has not been investigated. The purpose of this study was to determine whether there is a higher incidence of anterior diaphragmatic hernias in children with Trisomy 21 after cardiac surgery. We compared the prevalence of anterior diaphragmatic hernias in 92 patients with Trisomy 21 who underwent cardiac surgery with its prevalence in 100 children without Trisomy 21 who underwent cardiac surgery. All available CXRs of all children underwent revision for the presence of an anterior diaphragmatic hernia by a pediatric radiologist. Within the study group, four cases of an anterior diaphragmatic hernia were detected, all upon presentation to the emergency room due to breathing difficulties. No cases of an anterior diaphragmatic hernia were found in the control group (P = 0.0094).

CONCLUSIONS

A high index of suspicion for an anterior diaphragmatic hernia should be maintained in children with Trisomy 21 who have undergone cardiac surgery and present with breathing difficulty. If CXR findings are uncertain, UGI series and\or CT should be performed. In light of our findings, the surgical technique has been modified in patients with DS in our medical center.

WHAT IS KNOWN

• Several studies reported an association between Trisomy 21 and diaphragmatic hernia resembling Morgagni hernia, but the effect of cardiac surgery on its formation has not been investigated.

WHAT IS NEW

• There is a higher incidence of anterior diaphragmatic hernia resembling a Morgagni hernia in children with Trisomy 21 after cardiac surgery. • A high index of suspicion for an anterior diaphragmatic hernia should be maintained in children with Trisomy 21 who have undergone cardiac surgery and present with breathing difficulty. If CXR findings are uncertain, UGI series and\or CT should be performed.

aCGH Analysis Reveals Novel Mutations Associated with Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Plus (CDH+)

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a major birth anomaly that often occurs with additional non-hernia-related malformations, and is then referred to as CDH+. While the impact of genetic alterations does not play a major role in isolated CDH, patients with CDH+ display mutations that are usually determined via array-based comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH). We analyzed 43 patients with CDH+ between 2012 and 2021 to identify novel specific mutations via aCGH associated with CDH+ and its outcome. Deletions (n = 32) and duplications (n = 29) classified as either pathological or variants of unknown significance (VUS) could be detected. We determined a heterozygous deletion of approximately 3.75 Mb located at 8p23.1 involving several genes including GATA4, NEIL2, SOX7, and MSRA, which was consequently evaluated as pathological. Another heterozygous deletion within the region of 9p23 (9,972,017-10,034,230 kb) encompassing the Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase Receptor Type Delta gene (PTPRD) was identified in 2 patients. This work expands the knowledge of genetic alterations associated with CDH+ and proposes two novel candidate genes discovered via aCGH.

Acute kidney injury in infants diagnosed with congenital diaphragmatic hernia

BACKGROUND

To assess the association and outcomes of acute kidney injury (AKI) in infants diagnosed with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH).

METHODS

We analyzed the National Inpatient Sample dataset for the years 2010 through 2018. We evaluated the prevalence and outcomes associated with AKI in infants diagnosed with CDH. Outcomes were assessed using regression analysis while controlling for variables.

RESULTS

A total of 32,042,481 term infants were identified, of them 10,804 had CDH. Prevalence of AKI in infants with CDH was 6.5% compared to 0.05% in those without CDH (aOR = 14.7, CI: 13.0-16.6). ECMO was utilized at 62% of CDH infants that had AKI compared to 17% in infants without AKI (aOR = 4.22, CI: 3.38-5.27). Mortality was greater in CDH infants who developed AKI when compared to those without AKI (57.3 vs. 16.7%, aOR = 3.65, CI: 2.99-4.46). The trend of mortality in CDH infants who developed AKI decreased overtime, p < 0.001, while the trends for mortality in the overall CDH infants and in CDH infants without AKI did not change during the study period, p = 0.12.

CONCLUSION

AKI is not uncommon in infants diagnosed with CDH. ECMO utilization and mortality are substantially increased in CDH infants when they develop AKI.

IMPACT

Mortality in infants diagnosed with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is relatively high despite advances in neonatal care. Infants with CDH are potentially at increased risk of acute kidney injury (AKI). Within CDH population, infants diagnosed with AKI are at increased risk for ECMO use and mortality. This is the largest study to address the association and outcomes of AKI in term infants diagnosed with CDH.

Incidence and Mortality of Pediatric Abdominal Compartment Syndrome

INTRODUCTION

Abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) is the presence of intra-abdominal hypertension with systemic, multiorgan effects and is associated with high mortality, yet the national incidence and mortality rates of pediatric ACS remain unknown. The aim of this study is to evaluate the incidence and mortality of pediatric ACS over a 13-year period across multiple children's hospitals and between individual children's hospitals in the United States.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective cohort study on children (aged < 18 y) with ACS in the Pediatric Health Information Systems database from 2007 to 2019. We identified ACS patients by International Classification of Diseases codes in the ninth and 10th revision. The primary outcomes were incidence and mortality, which were analyzed by year, age, and hospital of admission.

RESULTS

Across 49 children's hospitals, we identified 2887 children with ACS from 2007 to 2019 in the Pediatric Health Information Systems database. The overall incidence of ACS was 0.17% and the overall mortality was 48.87%. There was no significant difference in annual incidence (P = 0.12) or mortality (P = 0.39) over the study period. There was no difference in incidence across age group (P = 0.38); however, mortality in patients 0-30 d old (58.61%) was significantly higher than older age groups (P < 0.0001). The hospital-specific incidence (0.04%-0.46%) and mortality (28.57%-71.43%) varied widely.

CONCLUSIONS

The annual incidence and mortality of pediatric ACS are unchanged from 2007 to 2019. ACS mortality remains high, especially in neonatal intensive care unit patients. No obvious correlation is seen between incidence rates and mortality. Differing hospital-specific incidence and mortality could suggest inconsistencies between institutions that affect pediatric ACS care, perhaps with respect to recognition and diagnosis.

Thoracic kidney nephrectomy due to recurrent Bochdalek hernia in an adult

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia incidence is one in 3000 live births, Bochdalek hernia occurs through a posterolateral defect. It is very rare in adults. We present a case of late relapsed one diagnosed in an adult male. He underwent an open intervention of Bochdalek hernia at first day of life and required reintervention at seventh month due to recurrence. Now, computerized tomography scan demonstrates a right diaphragmatic defect with intrathoracic hydronephrotic kidney. Nephrectomy was performed with Video-assisted Thoracic Surgery using laparoscopic ports and material. The diaphragmatic defect was closed with a polypropylene mesh. The patient was discharged after 72 h.

Termination of pregnancy after a prenatal diagnosis of congenital diaphragmatic hernia: Factors influencing the parental decision process

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the incidence of termination of pregnancies (TOP) and factors associated with the decision for TOP in prenatally detected congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH).

STUDY DESIGN

Single-centre retrospective cohort includes all prenatally detected CDH cases born between January 2009 and December 2021. Parental factors, such as parity, and fetal characteristics, such as disease severity, were collected. Descriptive statistics were used to present the data. Differences between terminated and continued pregnancies were analysed.

RESULTS

The study population consisted of 278 prenatally detected CDH cases of which 80% detected <24 weeks of gestation. The TOP rate was 28% in cases that were detected <24 weeks of gestation. Twenty continued pregnancies resulted in either intrauterine fetal demise (n = 6), preterm birth <24 weeks (n = 2), or comfort care after birth (n = 12). The survival rate was 70% in the remaining 195 live born cases. Factors associated with the decision for TOP were additional fetal genetic or anatomical abnormalities (p < 0.0001) and expected severity of pulmonary hypoplasia in left-sided CDH (p = 0.0456).

CONCLUSION

The decision to terminate a pregnancy complicated by fetal CDH depends on the severity of pulmonary hypoplasia and the presence of additional abnormalities. This emphasises the importance of early referral to expertise centres for detailed evaluation and multidisciplinary counselling.

The effect of tracheal occlusion in congenital diaphragmatic hernia in the nitrofen rat lung explant model

PURPOSE

Here, we establish a tracheal occlusion (TO) model with rat lung explants in nitrofen-induced pulmonary hypoplasia in the congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH).

METHODS

We extracted lungs from rats on an embryonic day 18. We mimicked TO in the lung explants by tying the trachea. We assessed lung weight, morphometry, and abundance of Ki-67, Active caspase-3, and Prosurfactant Protein C (proSP-C) with immunofluorescence.

RESULTS

Lung weight was higher in TO + than TO - on day 1. Abundance of Ki-67 was higher in TO + than TO - (0.15 vs. 0.32, p = 0.009 for day 1, 0.07 vs. 0.17, p = 0.004 for day 2, 0.07 vs. 0.12, p = 0.044 for day 3), and Active caspase-3 was higher in TO + than TO - on day 2 and day 3 (0.04 vs. 0.03 p = 0.669 for day 1, 0.03 vs. 0.13 p < 0.001 for day 2, 0.04 vs. 0.17 p = 0.008 for day3). However, proSP-C protein abundance was lower in TO + than TO - (67.9 vs. 59.1 p = 0.033 for day 1, 73.5 vs. 51.6 p = 0.038 for day 2, 83.1 vs. 56.4 p = 0.009 for day 3).

CONCLUSIONS

The TO model in lung explants mimics the outcomes of current surgical models of TO and further studies can reveal the cellular and molecular effects of TO in CDH lungs.

Copy number variations analysis in a cohort of 47 fetuses and newborns with congenital diaphragmatic hernia

OBJECTIVES

The congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH), characterized by malformation of the diaphragm and lung hypoplasia, is a common and severe birth defect that affects around 1 in 4000 live births. However, the etiology of most cases of CDH remains unclear. The aim of this study was to perform a retrospective analysis of copy number variations (CNVs) using a high-resolution array comparative genomic hybridization (array-CGH) in a cohort of fetuses and newborns with CDH.

METHODS

Forty seven fetuses and newborns with either isolated or syndromic CDH were analyzed by oligonucleotide-based array-CGH Agilent 180K technique.

RESULTS

A mean of 10.2 CNVs was detected by proband with a total number of 480 CNVs identified based on five categories: benign, likely benign, of uncertain signification, likely pathogenic, and pathogenic. Diagnostic performance was estimated at 19.15% (i.e., likely pathogenic and pathogenic CNVs) for both CDH types. We identified 11 potential candidate genes: COL25A1, DSEL, EYA1, FLNA, MECOM, NRXN1, RARB, SPATA13, TJP2, XIRP2, and ZFPM2.

CONCLUSION

We suggest that COL25A1, DSEL, EYA1, FLNA, MECOM, NRXN1, RARB, SPATA13, TJP2, XIRP2, and ZFPM2 genes may be related to CDH occurrence. Thus, this study provides a possibility for new methods of a positive diagnosis.

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.

Rare case of a right Bochdalek hernia with retroperitoneal prolapse of organs into the thoracic cavity in infancy: A case report

We report an extremely rare case of a right Bochdalek hernia with a sac, in which the retroperitoneal and intra-abdominal organs prolapsed into the thoracic cavity at the same time. The patient was a 7-month-old female with no comorbidities. She presented with cough and fever, and chest radiography revealed a right diaphragmatic hernia. Computed tomography showed that the right kidney, intestine, colon, and liver had prolapsed into the thoracic cavity. The patient underwent thoracoscopic surgery, which showed that the abdominal and retroperitoneal organs prolapsed into the thoracic cavity through the Bochdalek hernia. The herniated organs were spontaneously reduced using thoracoscopic insufflation. The defect hole was closed with artificial mesh. We adopted a thoracoscopic approach, in terms of easy reduction of herniated organs and accurate evaluation of the hernia orifice, which was useful.

The Genomics of Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia: A 10-Year Retrospective Review

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate genetic testing use in infants with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) over the past decade to better inform future practices and individualize prognostication and management.

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective cohort study was performed of all infants with CDH enrolled in the Pulmonary Hypoplasia Program at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, born between January 2011 and February 2021. For each infant, demographic information, prenatal and postnatal history, and genetic testing were reviewed.

RESULTS

The charts of 411 infants were analyzed. Overall, 22% (n = 89) were complex/syndromic and 78% (n = 322) were isolated/nonsyndromic. Mortality was significantly higher in complex/syndromic infants (P < .001) and in infants with diagnostic genetic testing (P < .001). Microarray was diagnostic in 9% (n = 34/399) and exome sequencing was diagnostic in 38% (n = 15/39). Genetic testing was diagnostic in 57% (n = 51/89) of complex/syndromic infants, but in only 2% of isolated/nonsyndromic infants (n = 8/322). Overall, genetic testing was diagnostic in 14% (n = 56).

CONCLUSIONS

The high diagnostic rate in this cohort highlights the utility of comprehensive genetic testing in infants with CDH. However, 43% of complex/syndromic and 98% of isolated/nonsyndromic infants do not have a genetic etiology identified. This finding underscores the need for additional genetic and genomic studies (eg, whole genome, RNA sequencing) to identify novel genes and mutational mechanisms (single genes, regulatory elements, complex traits) that will allow for improved diagnostic rates and ultimately individualized management of infants with CDH.

Assessment of the fetal lungs in utero

Antenatal diagnosis of abnormal pulmonary development has improved significantly over recent years because of progress in imaging techniques. Two-dimensional ultrasound is the mainstay of investigation of pulmonary pathology during pregnancy, providing good prognostication in conditions such as congenital diaphragmatic hernia; however, it is less validated in other high-risk groups such as those with congenital pulmonary airway malformation or preterm premature rupture of membranes. Three-dimensional assessment of lung volume and size is now possible using ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging; however, the use of these techniques is still limited because of unpredictable fetal motion, and such tools have also been inadequately validated in high-risk populations other than those with congenital diaphragmatic hernia. The advent of advanced, functional magnetic resonance imaging techniques such as diffusion and T2* imaging, and the development of postprocessing pipelines that facilitate motion correction, have enabled not only more accurate evaluation of pulmonary size, but also assessment of tissue microstructure and perfusion. In the future, fetal magnetic resonance imaging may have an increasing role in the prognostication of pulmonary abnormalities and in monitoring current and future antenatal therapies to enhance lung development. This review aims to examine the current imaging methods available for assessment of antenatal lung development and to outline possible future directions.

Image-based prenatal predictors of postnatal survival, extracorporeal life support, and defect size in right congenital diaphragmatic hernia

OBJECTIVE

To determine the association between prenatal ultrasound (US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) characteristics in right congenital diaphragmatic hernia (RCDH) with postnatal outcome.

STUDY DESIGN

CDH Study Group data were reviewed for all RCDH infants (n = 156) born between 2015 and 2019. Prenatal US and MRI lung size measurements were correlated with survival, extracorporeal life support (ECLS), and defect size.

RESULT

Overall survival was 64.1%. ECLS was required in 40.4%. US and MRI-based prenatal assessment of pulmonary hypoplasia does not predict survival. Prenatal measurement of lung size using either US or MRI correlates with ECLS use. Only MRI-based measures of lung size are associated with defect size.

CONCLUSION

Image-based prenatal predictors of survival, ECLS, and defect size are of limited value in RCDH. Extrapolation of prenatal survival and morbidity indicators from left to right-sided CDH is not appropriate. There is an urgent need to develop RCDH prenatal prediction models.

Synthetic versus Biological Patches for CDH: A Comparison of Recurrence Rates and Adverse Events, Systematic Review, and Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVE

 Our systematic review aims to compare recurrence rates and complications of biological versus synthetic patches for the repair of congenital diaphragmatic herniae.

METHODS

 Studies from January 1, 1980 to April 25, 2020, with patients under the age of 16 years and with a minimum 6-month follow-up, were included from MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane databases. Funnel plots for recurrence rates were constructed for biological and synthetic patches. Subgroup analysis was performed for recurrence rate at the 1-year time-point and data were gathered on individual adverse events from relevant studies.

RESULTS

 A total of 47 studies with 986 patients (226 biological, 760 synthetic) were included. Funnel plot analysis determined overall recurrence rates of 16.7% for synthetic and 30.3% for biological patches. Subgroup analysis of 493 and 146 patients with synthetic and biological patches, respectively, showed recurrence rates of 9.9 and 26%, respectively.The most commonly used patch types-PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) and SIS (small intestinal submucosa)-had 11.5 and 33.3% recurrence, respectively. Adhesive bowel obstruction rates ranged from 4 to 29% in studies that systematically reported it for synthetic, and 7 to 35% for biological patches. Gastroesophageal reflux rates ranged from 25 to 48% in studies that systematically reported it for synthetic, and 21 to 42% for biological patches. Pectus deformity rates were reported as high as 80% for synthetic patches.

CONCLUSION

 Biological patches appear to have higher recurrence rates than synthetic patches, while skeletal deformities are associated more commonly with synthetic patches. Results of biological patches are mainly using SIS and this may overestimate complications of current superior biological patches.

Underlying genetic etiologies of congenital diaphragmatic hernia

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is often detectable prenatally. Advances in genetic testing have made it possible to obtain a molecular diagnosis in many fetuses with CDH. Here, we review the aneuploidies, copy number variants (CNVs), and single genes that have been clearly associated with CDH. We suggest that array-based CNV analysis, with or without a chromosome analysis, is the optimal test for identifying chromosomal abnormalities and CNVs in fetuses with CDH. To identify causative sequence variants, whole exome sequencing (WES) is the most comprehensive strategy currently available. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) with CNV analysis has the potential to become the most efficient and effective means of identifying an underlying diagnosis but is not yet routinely available for prenatal diagnosis. We describe how to overcome and address the diagnostic and clinical uncertainty that may remain after genetic testing, and review how a molecular diagnosis may impact recurrence risk estimations, mortality rates, and the availability and outcomes of fetal therapy. We conclude that after the prenatal detection of CDH, patients should be counseled about the possible genetic causes of the CDH, and the genetic testing modalities available to them, in accordance with generally accepted guidelines for pretest counseling in the prenatal setting.

Right Bochdalek congenital diaphragmatic hernia: a tertiary center's experience over 13 years

Background

Right Bochdalek congenital diaphragmatic hernia (RB-CDH) is far less common than left Bochdalek congenital diaphragmatic hernia, accounting for only 13% of cases. There are limited published data on the outcomes and survival rate of RB-CDH.

We aimed at investigating the clinical characteristics and analyzing the risk factors of survival in neonates with RB-CDH treated in our center over a period of 13 years.

Results

Fifteen infants with RB-CDH were identified. Most of the patients were full term (74%). The mean birth weight was 2.90± 0.72 kg. The ratio of male to female was 2:1. The mean APGAR score at 1 min was 5.31±2.34, and 7.30±1.59 at 5 min. Ten patients (67%) were imaged by antenatal ultrasound. Eleven patients (73.33%) survived to go for surgical repair. The hernia sac was found in 5 patients (45%). Most hernial defects were closed in a primary fashion. The mean age at the operative repair was 8.11±9.90 days. The average NICU stay for all patients was 40.47±50.38 days. The mean follow-up period was 20.45±9.34 months. Three patients had postoperative complications. The total survival rate in neonates with RB-CDH was 9/15 (60%). Nine out of 11 (82%) neonates survived after surgical repair. Four patients (27%) died before surgical repair. Ventilation-related bilateral pneumothorax was a contributing cause of death in three patients. Birth weight was found lower in the non-survivor’s group (P < 0.05). Moreover, the degree of pulmonary hypertension was more severe among non-survivors. No statistical significance was observed between other variables and mortality.

Conclusion

We found that low birth weight and the presence of severe PHTN were risk factors for mortality in neonates with RB-CDH. These results are in line with previous studies on prognostic factors in CDH. Ventilator-related pneumothorax appears to be a significant contributing cause of death. Long-term follow-up studies of infants born with RB-CDH are needed as small number of cases limits large-volume RB-CDH studies.

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.

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.

Biallelic hypomorphic variants in ALDH1A2 cause a novel lethal human multiple congenital anomaly syndrome encompassing diaphragmatic, pulmonary, and cardiovascular defects

This study shows a causal association between ALDH1A2 variants and a novel, severe multiple congenital anomaly syndrome in humans that is neonatally lethal due to associated pulmonary hypoplasia and respiratory failure. In two families, exome sequencing identified compound heterozygous missense variants in ALDH1A2. ALDH1A2 is involved in the conversion of retinol (vitamin A) into retinoic acid (RA), which is an essential regulator of diaphragm and cardiovascular formation during embryogenesis. Reduced RA causes cardiovascular, diaphragmatic, and associated pulmonary defects in several animal models, matching the phenotype observed in our patients. In silico protein modeling showed probable impairment of ALDH1A2 for three of the four substitutions. In vitro studies show a reduction of RA. Few pathogenic variants in genes encoding components of the retinoic signaling pathway have been described to date, likely due to embryonic lethality. Thus, this study contributes significantly to knowledge of the role of this pathway in human diaphragm and cardiovascular development and disease. Some clinical features in our patients are also observed in Fryns syndrome (MIM# 229850), syndromic microphthalmia 9 (MIM# 601186), and DiGeorge syndrome (MIM# 188400). Patients with similar clinical features who are genetically undiagnosed should be tested for recessive ALDH1A2-deficient malformation syndrome.

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.

Volatile Organic Compounds, Bacterial Airway Microbiome, Spirometry and Exercise Performance of Patients after Surgical Repair of Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia

The aim of this study was to analyze the exhaled volatile organic compounds (VOCs) profile, airway microbiome, lung function and exercise performance in congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) patients compared to healthy age and sex-matched controls. A total of nine patients (median age 9 years, range 6-13 years) treated for CDH were included. Exhaled VOCs were measured by GC-MS. Airway microbiome was determined from deep induced sputum by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Patients underwent conventional spirometry and exhausting bicycle spiroergometry. The exhaled VOC profile showed significantly higher levels of cyclohexane and significantly lower levels of acetone and 2-methylbutane in CDH patients. Microbiome analysis revealed no significant differences for alpha-diversity, beta-diversity and LefSe analysis. CDH patients had significantly lower relative abundances of Pasteurellales and Pasteurellaceae. CDH patients exhibited a significantly reduced Tiffeneau Index. Spiroergometry showed no significant differences. This is the first study to report the VOCs profile and airway microbiome in patients with CDH. Elevations of cyclohexane observed in the CDH group have also been reported in cases of lung cancer and pneumonia. CDH patients had no signs of impaired physical performance capacity, fueling controversial reports in the literature.

ATS Core Curriculum 2020. Pediatric Pulmonary Medicine

The American Thoracic Society Core Curriculum updates clinicians annually in adult and pediatric pulmonary disease, medical critical care, and sleep medicine, in a 3- to 4-year recurring cycle of topics. These topics will be presented at the 2020 International Conference. Below is the pediatric pulmonary medicine core, including pediatric hypoxemic respiratory failure; modalities in noninvasive management of chronic respiratory failure in childhood; surgical and nonsurgical management of congenital lung malformations; an update on smoke inhalation lung injury; an update on vaporizers, e-cigarettes, and other electronic delivery systems; pulmonary complications of sarcoidosis; pulmonary complications of congenital heart disease; and updates on the management of congenital diaphragmatic hernia.

Update on Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a rare developmental defect of the diaphragm, characterized by herniation of abdominal contents into the chest that results in varying degrees of pulmonary hypoplasia and pulmonary hypertension (PH). Significant advances in the prenatal diagnosis and identification of prognostic factors have resulted in the continued refinement of the approach to fetal therapies for CDH. Postnatally, protocolized approaches to lung-protective ventilation, nutrition, prevention of infection, and early aggressive management of PH have led to improved outcomes in infants with CDH. Advances in our understanding of the associated left ventricular (LV) hypoplasia and myocardial dysfunction in infants with severe CDH have allowed for the optimization of hemodynamics and management of PH. This article provides a comprehensive review of CDH for the anesthesiologist, focusing on the complex pathophysiology, advances in prenatal diagnosis, fetal interventions, and optimal postnatal management of CDH.

Prevalence and risk factors for congenital diaphragmatic hernia: A global view

PURPOSE

To determine the global prevalence for congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) and identify CDH-related risk factors.

METHODS

Using a defined strategy, a systematic review of the literature was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines, searching for population-based epidemiological studies to evaluate the prevalence of CDH globally and per country. Studies containing overlapping populations or timeframes were excluded. CDH-related risk factors were calculated by meta-analysis using RevMan5.3 and expressed as risk ratio and 95% confidence interval.

RESULTS

Prevalence: Of 8230 abstracts screened, 30 full-text articles published between 1980 and 2019 were included. The overall prevalence of CDH was 2.3 in 10,000 births (16,710 CDH babies in 73,663,758 livebirths).

RISK FACTORS

From 9 studies we found that male sex [RR 1.38 (1.05-1.80), p=0.02] and maternal age >35 years [RR 1.69 (1.26-2.25), p=0.0004] were associated with CDH. Conversely, maternal black ethnicity resulted as a protective factor [RR 0.82 (0.77-0.89, p<0.00001].

CONCLUSION

This study reveals that there is a worldwide paucity of population-based studies, and those studies that report on prevalence and risk factors come from a small number of countries. The prevalence of CDH varies within and across geographical world regions. The main risk factors for CDH identified are male sex and older maternal age. More epidemiological studies, involving more world regions, are needed to identify possible strategies to help strengthen our understanding of the risk factors, provide clinicians with the tools necessary for prenatal and postnatal counseling, and inform policy makers on how to strategize CDH care in different parts of the world.

TYPE OF STUDY

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

High-frequency vs. conventional ventilation at the time of CDH repair is not associated with higher mortality and oxygen dependency: a retrospective cohort study

PURPOSE

The VICI-trial reported that in patients with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH), mortality or bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) were equivalent using conventional mechanical ventilation (CMV) and high-frequency oscillatory ventilation. The purpose of this study was to determine if the mode of ventilation at the time of CDH repair affected mortality or oxygen dependence at 28 days.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective cohort study of infants born wih CDH from 1991 to 2015. A generalized linear model was applied to the data using a propensity score analysis.

RESULTS

Eighty patients met the inclusion criteria; at the time of surgery 39 (48.8%) patients were on HFV and 41 (51.3%) patients were on CMV. In the HFV group, 16 (47.1%) patients remained oxygen dependent and there were 5 (12.8%) deaths at 28 days. In the CMV group, 5 (12.2%) patients remained oxygen dependent at 28 days but none had died. The base model demonstrated that the HFV group had increased rates of oxygen dependence [OR = 6.40 (2.13, 22.2), p = 0.002]. However, after propensity score analysis, we found no difference between HFV and CMV.

CONCLUSION

Our study suggests that in infants with CDH, there is no significant difference between HFV and CMV in oxygen dependency or death.

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia and associated omphalocele: a study from the CDHSG registry

BACKGROUND

Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH) associated with Omphalocele is a rare condition, and only a few case reports are available in the literature. Both conditions are associated with some degree of pulmonary hypoplasia. We hypothesize that the combination of CDH with Omphalocele might be associated with poorer outcomes.

AIM

The aim of this study was to describe the incidence of this association and postnatal outcomes from the largest database available for CDH.

METHODS

Data from the multicenter, multinational database on infants with CDH (CDHSG Registry) born from 2007 to 2018 was analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 5730 entries were made into the registry during the study period. The incidence of Omphalocele associated with CDH was 0.63% (36 out of 5730). When comparing posterolateral Bochdalek hernias with Omphalocele (CDH + O) to CDH without Omphalocele (CDH-), CDH + O were born at significantly younger gestational ages. They were sicker directly after birth with significantly lower APGARs at all time points, but received ECMO significantly less often. The distribution of left vs right side or the defect size did not differ but CDH + O required patch in a significantly larger extent. CDH + O had surgical repair significantly later and had significantly higher rates of non-repairs and significantly lower survival rates. The morbidity was significantly higher with longer hospital stays and higher requirements for O2 at 30 DOL.

DISCUSSION

CDH associated with Omphalocele is a rare but more severe condition with higher mortality and morbidity rates. Newborns with these combined conditions can be difficult to stabilize or might pose complicated management problems due to pulmonary hypertension and/or pulmonary hypoplasia.

TYPE OF STUDY

Prognosis Study.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level I.

Risk factors of early mortality after neonatal surgery in Tunisia

BACKGROUND

Research concerning factors of death after neonatal surgery is scarce. Insight into mortality might improve perioperative care. This study aimed to identify predictive factors of mortality after neonatal surgery in a low income country (LIC).

METHODS

Charts of all newborn patients who underwent surgical procedures under general anesthesia during the neonatal period in our department of pediatric surgery between January 2010 and December 2017 were reviewed. We used univariate and multivariate analysis to evaluate perioperative variables potentially predictive of early postoperative mortality.

RESULTS

One hundred eighty-two cases were included in the study: 41 newborns (28.6%) were premature (<37 weeks of gestation) and 52 (22.5%) weighed less than 2.5 kg. The most commonly diagnosed conditions were esophageal atresia (24%) and bowel obstruction (19%). Forty-four patients (24%) died during hospitalization. The highest rate of mortality was observed for congenital diaphragmatic hernia. Univariate analysis showed that perinatal predictive variables of mortality were prematurity, low birth weight, the necessity of preoperative intubation, and duration of surgery more than 2 h. Logistic regression showed three independent risk factors, which are the duration of surgery, low birth weight and the necessity of preoperative intubation.

CONCLUSION

The overall mortality in infants undergoing neonatal surgery is still high in LICs. Knowledge of independent risk factors of early mortality may help clinicians to more adequately manage the high-risk population.

TYPE OF THE STUDY

Clinical research paper.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

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.

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia: current management strategies from antenatal diagnosis to long-term follow-up

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a developmental birth defect consisting of a diaphragmatic defect and abnormal lung development. CDH complicates 2.3-2.8 per 10,000 live births. Despite efforts to standardize clinical practice, management of CDH remains challenging. Frequent re-evaluation of clinical practices in CDH reveals that management of CDH is evolving from one of postnatal stabilization to prenatal optimization. Translational research reveals promising avenues for in utero therapeutic intervention, including fetoscopic endoluminal tracheal occlusion. These remain highly experimental and demand improved antenatal diagnostics. Timely diagnosis of CDH and identification of severely affected fetuses allow time for delivery planning or in utero therapeutics. Optimal perinatal care and surgical treatment strategies are highly debated. Improved CDH mortality rates have placed increased emphasis on identifying and monitoring the long-term sequelae of disease throughout childhood and into adulthood. We review the current management strategies for CDH, highlighting where progress has been made, and where future developments have the potential to revolutionize care in this vulnerable patient population.

Implications of Atrial-Level Shunting by Echocardiography in Newborns with Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether postnatal echocardiographic indices of left ventricular (LV) size and function are associated with atrial-level shunt direction and investigate whether a relationship exists between LV function and LV size in patients with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH).

STUDY DESIGN

This was a single-center retrospective study of 51 neonates with CDH evaluated at Children's Hospital Colorado. Initial postnatal echocardiograms were analyzed for cardiac dimensions, valvar integrity, cardiac time intervals, and biventricular function. Comparisons were made between neonates with left-to-right vs right-to-left atrial-level shunting, as well as between those with decreased (ejection fraction <55%) vs normal (ejection fraction ≥55%) LV function.

RESULTS

The majority (82.4%) of infants with CDH had a left-to-right atrial-level shunt, and 84.3% had systemic or suprasystemic pulmonary artery pressure. Decreased LV function was demonstrated in 37.2% and was associated with smaller LV volumes and worse outcomes, including the need for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and survival.

CONCLUSIONS

Left-to-right atrial-level shunting is common in neonates with severe CDH, even in the presence of suprasystemic pulmonary artery pressure. LV dysfunction correlates with decreased LV volumes and is associated with adverse neonatal outcomes, including increased need for ECMO and decreased survival.

Prenatal Diagnosis and Management of a Rare Central Tendon Defect Type of Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia with a Massive Pericardial Effusion

The central tendon defect type of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is extremely rare and usually associated with a significant pericardial effusion. Prenatal diagnostic ultrasound features of this quite rare entity remain often overlooked or misdiagnosed. There is a dearth of literature about the role of prenatal intervention, often through an elective pericardiocentesis, for the prevention of lung hypoplasia and to decrease the overall neonatal morbidity and mortality. To the best of our knowledge, till date, there is only one case that was subjected to a prenatal intervention. Here, we present a second case of a central tendon defect type of CDH with a large pericardial effusion that was subjected to a prenatal transthoracic pericardiocentesis. Although smooth intubation and ventilation were performed immediately after birth, the infant suffered for several months from respiratory instability. Laparoscopic central tendon hernia repair was performed, and neonate was discharged home at seven months of age. Although prenatal pericardiocentesis may facilitate smoother postnatal intubation and ventilation, its broader effect on respiratory function is uncertain and still remains elusive.

Comparative outcomes of right versus left congenital diaphragmatic hernia: A multicenter analysis

BACKGROUND

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) occurs in 1 out of 2500-3000 live births. Right-sided CDHs (R-CDHs) comprise 25% of all CDH cases, and data are conflicting on outcomes of these patients. The aim of our study was to compare outcomes in patients with right versus left CDH (L-CDH).

METHODS

We analyzed a multicenter prospectively enrolled database to compare baseline characteristics and outcomes of neonates enrolled from January 2005 to January 2019 with R-CDH vs. L-CDH.

RESULTS

A total of 588, 495 L-CDH, and 93 R-CDH patients with CDH were analyzed. L-CDHs were more frequently diagnosed prenatally (p=0.011). Lung-to-head ratio was similar in both cohorts. R-CDHs had a lower frequency of primary repair (p=0.022) and a higher frequency of need for oxygen at discharge (p=0.013). However, in a multivariate analysis, need for oxygen at discharge was no longer significantly different. There were no differences in long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes assessed at two year follow up. There was no difference in mortality, need for ECMO, pulmonary hypertension, or hernia recurrence.

CONCLUSION

In this large series comparing R to L-CDH patients, we found no significant difference in mortality, use of ECMO, or pulmonary complications. Our study supports prior studies that R-CDHs are relatively larger and more often require a patch or muscle flap for repair.

TYPE OF STUDY

Prognosis study LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level II.