Imaging of Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernias

Background: Congenital diaphragmatic hernias are complex and life-threatening lesions that are not just anatomic defects of the diaphragm, but represent a complex set of physiologic derangements of the lung, the pulmonary vasculature, and related structures. Imaging plays an increasingly important role in the care of these infants. Materials and Methods: Prenatal ultrasound and MRI have enabled early and precise identification of the anomaly and associated abnormalities. These tools have also made it possible to define the degree of pulmonary hypoplasia, and to predict newborn survival and the need for aggressive respiratory rescue strategies. In the postnatal period, conventional radiography supplemented by cross-sectional imaging in selected cases can be very useful in establishing the differential diagnosis of intrathoracic masses, detecting associated abnormalities and managing complications associated with pulmonary hypoplasia. Conclusion: Fetal intervention such as, fetal tracheal occlusion, is being trialled and may change the outcomes in the future.