Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia. The Post-Neonatal Period (Part II)

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2008

Authors

Rocha, GM (Author) Other; Bianchi, RF (Author) Other; Inês Azevedo (Author) FMUP; Correia Pinto, J (Author) Other; Guimarães H (Author) FMUP

Journal

Title: European Journal of Pediatric Surgery

Vol. 18

Pages: 307-312

ISSN: 0939-7248

Publisher: Thieme

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 5 Citations

Scopus - 9 Citations

Pubmed / Medline

Scientific classification

FOS: Medical and Health sciences > Other medical sciences

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-003-VRD

DOI: 10.1055/s-2008-1038606

Abstract (EN): Purpose: The aim of this study was to describe the long-term functional impact of congenital diaphragmatic hernia repair on the survivors of a cohort of newborns. Methods: We analysed the multidisciplinary follow-up medical charts of 26 congenital diaphragmatic hernia survivors, treated at the Hospital de Sao Joao neonatal intensive care unit from January 1997 to December 2006. Results: The median age at follow-up was 51 (14-141) months. One (4%) patient had died by the age of three months old. Thirteen (50%) patients presented with at least one sequelae, six (23%) presented with two or more. Gastrointestinal problems were the most prevalent, with 6 (23%) children below the fifth percentile for weight and 3 (12%) with gastro-oesophageal reflux. Respiratory morbidity was present in 4 (15%) patients. Four (15%) patients exhibited neurological problems. No case of sensorineural hearing loss was diagnosed. Other findings included musculoskeletal anomalies (12%), recurrence of hernia (8%) and patch rejection (4%). Conclusion: Congenital diaphragmatic hernia survivors present with ongoing morbidities and mortality during infancy and childhood. They constitute a group of patients who require long-term regular follow-up in a multidisciplinary setting to provide adequate support and improve their quality of life.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 6