Managing respiratory complications in infants and newborns with congenital diaphragmatic hernia

Introduction: Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is one of the most challenging neonatal surgical conditions due to its high mortality and morbidity. A multidisciplinary approach is required regarding the management of affected infants, before birth, during their initial hospitalization and in their long-term follow-up. Areas covered: This review discusses the monitoring and management strategies for infants with CDH including during the prenatal and postnatal periods. It emphasizes the long-term sequelae these patients can suffer throughout childhood and adulthood. This article highlights the progress that has been made and where future developments have the potential to improve the outcome of this vulnerable patient population. A literature search was performed using Google Scholar, Science Direct and PubMed. Expert opinion: Advances in antenatal and neonatal care have improved the early survival of infants with CDH, but many infants are surviving with long-term morbidity. An increasing number of CDH survivors are now reaching adolescence and adulthood. New challenges arise regarding the prevention and management of their long-term problems.