CONGENITAL DIAPHRAGMATIC HERNIA POST-SURGICAL TREATMENT AND CHILD DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

Introduction: Congenital diaphragmatic hernia is a condition with unclear etiology, when an opening is formed in the diaphragm during the period of organogenesis. This opening enables abdominal organs to enter the thoracic cavity, making pressure on the lungs, heart, blood vessels, neural and other structures. Purpose: To present a patient at 5 years of age, born with congenital diaphragmatic hernia and all of the accompanying conditions that followed after the surgery when he was released from the pediatric hospital, to be taken care at his home and evalution of child development. Material and Methods: For the purpose of this study the medical history was observed of a child aged five. His pediatrician, his pediatric surgeon and other medical staff were questioned of all the procedures he had gone through. He was clinically examined with the methods of inspection, palpation, percussion and auscultation. Para clinical methods like radiology and ultrasonography were also applied. Blood analyses were made. Every detail regarding his medical history compared to his current condition was noted in his medical record. Results and Discussion: Congenital diaphragmatic hernia is rarely an isolated condition. Unfortunately many of the accompanying situations and conditions cannot be predicted while the child is in the womb or at his birth. Conclusion: Congenital diaphragmatic hernia is a very serious and delicate condition regarding the physical and mental health of patients and their families. As a condition with multiple pathological mechanisms, it needs constant monitoring for the wellbeing of patients. Families must be advised to make frequent appointments to the pediatrician, pediatric surgeon, children's cardiologist, otolaryngologist and all the other medical specialists to enable this patient an appropriate and abundant life and development like all normal children.