Large defect size is associated with 30-day mortality following surgical repair of congenital diaphragmatic hernia

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is one of the most challenging neonatal conditions occurring in 3 in 10000 live births. [1] Despite considerable recent advances in perinatal resuscitation and neonatal care, CDH remains an important cause of mortality with rates ranging from 25% to 50%. [2-5] The leading causes of death in these patients are persistent pulmonary hypertension and severe lung hypoplasia. [6] Many researchers have studied the association between prognostic factors and mortality following surgical repair of CDH. However, these prognostic factors did not find widespread use due to conflicting results. Moreover, most studies regarding CDH outcomes are from developed countries. The management of these patients in developing countries is more challenging. In Tunisia, as in many developing countries, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and synthetic patches are not available. The aim of this study was to assess risk factors for 30-day mortality following surgical repair of congenital diaphragmatic hernia in a single center in Tunisia.