Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia

Abstract

The diaphragm begins to form at four weeks gestation and is completely formed by the eighth to tenth week. The diaphragm is made up of four embryonic structures: the septum transversum, dorsal esophageal mesentery, the pleuroperitoneal membrane, and muscular ingrowth from the body wall [1]. When these components do not develop properly a defect occurs which permits the abdominal contents to enter the thorax, causing a congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). The most common location of a defect is posterolateral through the foramen of Bochdalek, and occurs more frequently on the left side. Defects in an anterior parasternal location through the foramen of Morgagni and at the esophageal hiatus are less common [2].