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Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia
Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Surgery & Treatment of Children in Dubai
Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) occurs when the diaphragm does not develop completely before birth. This leaves an opening through which organs such as the intestines, stomach or liver may move into the chest.
The condition may be identified during pregnancy or after birth. Its severity varies from one child to another, so treatment is planned according to the baby's breathing, lung development and overall condition.
At Aster Hospitals, our paediatric surgery team provides assessment and treatment planning for children with congenital conditions affecting the diaphragm and chest.
Causes of Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia
Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a birth defect in which an opening in the diaphragm allows organs from the abdomen to move into the chest. The diaphragm is a muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen and supports normal breathing. When abdominal organs occupy space in the chest, the development of the lungs may be affected.
Types of Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia
The main types of congenital diaphragmatic hernia include:
- Bochdalek Hernia: This is the most common type and usually develops towards the back of the diaphragm. It often occurs on the left side but may also affect the right.
- Morgagni Hernia: This type develops towards the front of the diaphragm and may be detected during an investigation for breathing or chest-related symptoms.
The child's symptoms and treatment needs depend on the location of the defect and the organs involved.
What Causes Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia?
CDH develops during pregnancy when the diaphragm does not form normally. The exact reason why this happens is not always known. Genetic factors, developmental changes and other influences may be involved in some cases.
The condition is not usually caused by anything a parent did during pregnancy. A specialist may recommend additional assessments to identify associated abnormalities and understand the child's overall health.
Signs and Symptoms
The symptoms of congenital diaphragmatic hernia depend on the size of the defect and how much it affects lung development. Possible signs include:
- Rapid or difficult breathing after birth.
- Low oxygen levels.
- Bluish skin or lips.
- Reduced breath sounds on one side of the chest.
- A less prominent or sunken abdomen.
- Feeding difficulties or breathing-related symptoms in children diagnosed later.
A newborn with suspected CDH requires prompt assessment and specialist medical care at a leading paediatric hospital for seamless recovery.
How Is Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Diagnosed?
Some cases are detected during a routine antenatal ultrasound. After birth, the condition may be suspected when a baby develops breathing difficulties or unusual examination findings. Investigations may include:
- Ultrasound: Helps assess the developing baby or examine the diaphragm and abdominal organs.
- Chest X-ray: May show abdominal organs positioned inside the chest.
- Echocardiography: Evaluates the heart and checks for associated cardiac concerns.
- Additional Imaging: Further scans may be advised when the diagnosis or anatomy requires clarification.
The medical team uses the findings to assess the severity of the condition and plan the next steps.
Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Treatment
Treatment of CDH depends on the following:
- Initial Stabilisation: Babies with breathing difficulties may need respiratory support and neonatal intensive care.
- Timing of Surgery: Surgery is usually performed after the baby is stabilised.
- Diaphragm Repair: The surgeon returns the abdominal organs to the abdomen and closes the diaphragmatic opening.
- Patch Repair: A patch may be used for large defects or when direct closure is not possible.
- Surgical Approach: Open or minimally invasive surgery may be considered based on the child's condition, anatomy and available expertise.
Recovery and Follow-Up
Recovery varies according to lung development, the size of the defect and any associated medical problems. Some children require continued respiratory support after surgery, while others need monitoring for feeding difficulties, growth concerns or breathing problems.
Why Choose Aster Hospitals for Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Treatment in Dubai?
At Aster Hospitals, our paediatric surgery team supports families through assessment, treatment planning and postoperative care. The care plan may include:
- Specialist Assessment: Review of clinical findings and investigation reports.
- Individualised Planning: Treatment recommendations based on the child's condition.
- Surgical Guidance: Explanation of the proposed repair and possible approaches.
- Postoperative Support: Advice about recovery, feeding and follow-up.
- Family Communication: Clear information about the treatment pathway and ongoing care needs.
- Accessible Locations: Paediatric services are available at Mankhool, Al Qusais, Jebel Ali and Muhaisnah.
Book your appointment with our paediatric thoracic surgery team at Aster Hospitals to discuss your child's congenital diaphragmatic hernia and available treatment options.
Meet Our Paediatric Thoracic Surgery Specialists
Our team of experienced and board-certified paediatric surgeons evaluates children with congenital conditions affecting the diaphragm and chest. During a consultation, parents can discuss the diagnosis, treatment options, surgical approach and expected recovery.
Families looking for a congenital diaphragmatic hernia surgeon can arrange an appointment to understand their child's condition and the care that may be required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Be Detected Before Birth?
Yes. Some cases are identified during an antenatal ultrasound. Further assessments may be recommended to evaluate lung development, the position of abdominal organs and the care required after delivery.
Does Every Baby With Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Need Surgery?
Surgery is generally needed to close the diaphragm defect, but the timing depends on the baby's breathing, lung development and overall stability. The medical team determines when repair can be performed safely.
Can a Child Recover Fully After Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Repair?
Recovery varies according to the severity of the condition and the development of the lungs. Some children recover well, while others may need ongoing monitoring for breathing, feeding or growth-related concerns.
Last updated: 04-11-2026
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