[Severe malformations associated with congenital diaphragmatic hernia: conditioning factors for mortality]

We have retrospectively reviewed the clinical records of 42 newborns with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) treated in our Neonatal Unit between January 1974 and December 1991. In 20 of the children, the CDH was associated with other malformations, which were major in 11 cases (26.2%). The malformations which occurred most frequently were cardiovascular, followed by chromosomal anomalies and those affecting the central nervous system (CNS). All of the newborns with major malformations are included in the high risk group or those with early diagnosis. Overall mortality was 57.1%. Nine out of the 11 cases with major malformations died (81.8%).