Fetal diaphragmatic hernia: ultrasound diagnosis and clinical outcome in 19 cases

Nineteen cases of congenital diaphragmatic hernia diagnosed in utero are reported with emphasis on sonographic findings, associated congenital and karyotypic abnormalities, the presence or absence of polyhydramnios, and clinical outcome. The survival of these infants was very poor despite accurate prenatal diagnosis, maximal surgical and medical treatment and maximal postnatal care. The overall survival rate was 10.5%, and for fetuses who lived beyond delivery the survival rate was 20%.