Left congenital diaphragmatic hernia -- case report.

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Thoracic Surgery
• Congenital Abnormalities

Background:

• Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a birth defect where abdominal organs enter the chest cavity through a diaphragm defect.
• Left congenital diaphragmatic hernia (LCDH) is more common, occurring in 85% of cases.
• While often diagnosed neonatally, 5-25% of CDH cases present later in childhood due to symptoms or complications.

Observation:

• A 7-year-old girl presented with respiratory distress following trauma.
• Diagnosis revealed a late-presenting left congenital diaphragmatic hernia (LCDH).

Findings:

• The patient underwent surgical repair of the LCDH via an open trans-abdominal approach.
• The surgical outcome was favorable.

Implications:

• This case highlights that late-presenting CDH, even after trauma, can be successfully treated.
• Surgical intervention for LCDH in older children can lead to positive results.
• Emphasizes the importance of considering CDH in pediatric respiratory distress, especially with a history of trauma.