MAXIMAL OXYGEN-CONSUMPTION AND STRESS PERFORMANCE IN CHILDREN OPERATED ON FOR CONGENITAL DIAPHRAGMATIC-HERNIA

The long-term follow-up of patients operated on for congenital diaphra gmatic hernia (CDH) at birth has been extensively evaluated, both clin ically and with respect to respiratory function. However, little is kn own about the sports practice and stress performance of these subjects . Fifteen of 107 patients operated on for CDH underwent exercise stres s testing with a stepwise increase in workload. A questionnaire was pr ovided, which requested information on sports practice and lifestyle. Maximal oxygen consumption (Vo(2) max) was measured along with dynamic lung volumes. Clinical examination included a whole-body assessment ( height, weight, skinfolds) and vital parameters (heart rate and blood pressure). Fifteen healthy children who practiced regular physical act ivity (2 to 4 hours/week) served as controls. All the CDH patients exp erienced a good lifestyle, but only 8 of them were participating in sp orts. Exercise duration and Vo(2) max were significantly lower for the CDH patients, and were lowest for the sedentary patients. Therefore, the reduced Vo(2) max of these otherwise healthy children most likely represents a lower degree of physical fitness rather than decreased re spiratory function. Fitness is an expression of well-being; thus, ther e is evidence that these patients could safely participate in competit ive motor activities. Copyright (C) 1996 by W.B. Saunders Company