Congenital diaphragmatic hernia

Objective: To study the pattern of congenital diaphragmatic hernia in the A ssir Province of Saudi Arabia. Methods: Medical records of all newborn infants of Saudi nationality admitt ed and treated for congenital diaphragmatic hernia in the neonatal intensiv e care unit of Assir Central Hospital, Abha were reviewed. The diagnosis of congenital diaphragmatic hernia was based on clinical, radiological and su rgical findings. Results: Thirty-six cases of congenital diaphragmatic hernia referred from health institutions in Assir Province were seen over a period of 2.5 years (January 1996 - June 1998). Congenital diaphragmatic hernia constituted 7% of total neonatal admissions during the period. Sex incidence was equal and all cases were of the Bochdalek type; 34 were sited on the left and 2 on t he right. All the patients were asphyxiated and required ventilatory suppor t at birtConclusion: The pattern of congenital diaphragmatic hernia in Assi r Province is closely at par with global experience but the incidence of as sociated congenital anomalies and fatality rates appear to be comparatively low. To improve the outcome, medical institutions in the Assir Province ne ed better facilities to optimize neonatal care. There is a need to provide facilities for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.h. Eight percent of pati ents had other congenital anomalies. The overall mortality rate was 36%; 14 % of the patients died preoperatively, and postoperative death was largely Medical records of all newborn infants of related with persistent respirato ry insufficiency and Medical records of all newborn infants of septicemia.