Mar 1, 2023 · Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a rare condition that happens in a baby before birth. It occurs early in pregnancy when a baby's diaphragm — the muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen — fails to close as it should.

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a rare condition that occurs when the diaphragm – the muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen – fails to close during prenatal development. This allows abdominal organs (stomach, intestines, and/or liver) to move into the chest.

The Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital Center for Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH) in St. Petersburg, Florida, combines compassionate care, innovative techniques, and cutting-edge technology to treat babies with CDH.

Apr 1, 2025 · A congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a type of hernia that occurs during fetal development. When abdominal organs move into a fetus’s chest, they can crowd its lungs. Babies born with CDH tend to have small, underdeveloped lungs and low blood oxygen.

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a birth defect in which the diaphragm—the muscle that separates the abdomen from the chest—does not develop completely. This causes a hole where abdominal organs can migrate into the chest.

When your child has a congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH), it means that there’s a hole in that layer — or, rarely, that the diaphragm is missing altogether. CDH affects about one in every 2,500 babies.

About 1,600 babies are born with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) every year in the U.S. It's just as common as cystic fibrosis and spina bifida, but many people have never heard of it. CDH can be life-threatening if it's not treated.

We provide advanced treatment, compassionate care and hope to families with babies diagnosed with CDH. In the Johns Hopkins All Children’s Center for Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH) in St. Petersburg, Florida, families find hope during a time that may otherwise feel hopeless.

How a baby with congenital diaphragmatic hernia recovers after birth is determined by many factors. Babies who experienced more severe CDH may face challenges which can include mild learning problems, breathing illnesses, hearing loss, and growth problems.

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) occurs when a baby’s diaphragm (the muscle that helps us breathe in and out) doesn’t close all the way. Learn how it’s diagnosed and treated.