Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia

Steps Involved in IVF:

Procedure Description:

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a rare but serious birth defect where an abnormal opening in the diaphragm allows organs from the abdomen (such as the stomach, intestines, or liver) to move into the chest cavity. This condition impairs the development of the lungs and affects the infant’s ability to breathe properly. CDH can vary in severity, depending on the size of the hernia and the organs involved.

The condition occurs during fetal development, typically within the first few weeks of pregnancy. The diaphragm, a crucial muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen, fails to form completely, leaving a gap that allows abdominal organs to invade the chest space. As a result, lung development is restricted, leading to life-threatening respiratory issues after birth. In many cases, CDH is diagnosed before birth via routine ultrasound, but in some instances, it may only become apparent after birth due to breathing difficulties.

Surgical intervention is required to repair the diaphragm and reposition the organs. The primary objective of surgery is to close the hole in the diaphragm and ensure the lungs have enough room to grow and function. Advances in fetal surgery have also allowed some interventions to be performed before birth, where specialized fetal surgeons operate to improve lung growth in severe cases of CDH. However, postnatal surgery remains the most common treatment approach. Post-surgical care in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) is essential to monitor lung function and the infant’s overall recovery.

Procedure Duration:

The timing of CDH surgery depends on the severity of the defect and the infant’s health at birth. In many cases, surgery is delayed until the infant stabilizes and can better handle the stress of the procedure. Stabilization often involves mechanical ventilation to assist with breathing and sometimes the use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), a heart-lung bypass machine that gives the infant’s lungs time to mature and heal.

The actual surgical procedure generally lasts between 2 to 4 hours, depending on the complexity of the hernia and the organs involved. Surgeons use minimally invasive techniques when possible, but more extensive cases may require an open surgical approach. During the procedure, the surgeon carefully moves the abdominal organs back into their proper position and closes the hole in the diaphragm using stitches or synthetic patches.

After surgery, recovery varies from patient to patient. Some infants may remain in the NICU for several weeks or months, depending on lung development, the extent of the hernia, and the presence of any other congenital conditions. Postoperative care focuses on respiratory support, nutrition, and monitoring for complications like infection or recurrence of the hernia. Infants with CDH often require ongoing medical care to manage long-term respiratory issues, developmental delays, or gastrointestinal problems, although the prognosis can improve significantly with early and effective intervention.

Benefits:

  • Improved Respiratory Function: Surgical repair allows the lungs to expand and function properly, helping infants breathe more easily.
  • Enhanced Lung Development: Early intervention can promote better lung growth, reducing the need for prolonged respiratory support.
  • Minimally Invasive Options: In select cases, minimally invasive surgery may reduce recovery time and postoperative complications.
  • Long-Term Survival Improvement: Successful surgery significantly increases survival rates for infants born with CDH.
  • Comprehensive Postoperative Care: Modern neonatal care ensures that infants receive necessary respiratory and nutritional support during recovery.

Potential Destinations:

  • United States
    The U.S. is a leading destination for CDH surgery, with several top-tier hospitals specializing in fetal and neonatal surgery. The country offers advanced surgical techniques and access to comprehensive post-surgical care, making it a preferred destination for families seeking cutting-edge treatment options.
  • Germany
    Known for its advanced healthcare system, Germany offers state-of-the-art facilities for pediatric and neonatal surgery. Hospitals in Germany are well-regarded for their use of minimally invasive techniques and experienced specialists in treating complex congenital conditions like CDH.
  • United Kingdom
    The UK’s pediatric surgery centers are recognized for their expertise in treating congenital conditions such as CDH. The National Health Service (NHS) offers well-established protocols for managing CDH, from fetal diagnosis to surgical intervention and intensive post-surgical care.
  • South Korea
    South Korea has become an emerging destination for medical tourists seeking specialized pediatric surgeries. Its hospitals are equipped with cutting-edge medical technology, and many surgeons are internationally trained, offering high-quality care for conditions like CDH.
  • Spain
    Spain’s healthcare system is known for its high standards, and its pediatric surgery centers offer specialized treatments for congenital conditions. Spain provides excellent postoperative care and rehabilitation, with hospitals renowned for their personalized and family-centered approach.

Risks & Considerations:

  • Respiratory Complications: Lung development may remain limited even after surgery, requiring prolonged respiratory support or additional interventions.
  • Infection Risk: As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection, particularly in the postoperative period when the infant is recovering in the NICU.
  • Long-term Health Challenges: Some children may experience ongoing respiratory or gastrointestinal issues, developmental delays, or learning difficulties after surgery.
  • Recurrence of the Hernia: In rare cases, the hernia may recur, requiring further surgical intervention to repair the diaphragm.
  • Anesthesia Risks: Neonates undergoing surgery are at higher risk of complications related to anesthesia, including breathing difficulties and prolonged recovery times.

How to Choose the Right Doctor and Hospital:

When selecting a doctor and hospital for congenital diaphragmatic hernia treatment, it’s essential to look for medical centers with a dedicated team of pediatric surgeons, neonatologists, and specialized nursing staff experienced in treating CDH. Verify the hospital's expertise in neonatal surgery, especially in managing complex congenital conditions. Facilities with a well-equipped neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) are crucial to ensure the baby receives comprehensive postoperative care.

Additionally, consider seeking hospitals with access to fetal surgery teams if prenatal intervention is needed. Reputation, patient outcomes, and access to cutting-edge medical technology should be key factors in choosing the right facility for this complex procedure. Consultations with pediatric specialists can help families navigate treatment options and develop an individualized care plan for the infant.

To receive a free quote for this procedure please click on the link: https://www.medicaltourism.com/get-a-quote

Patients are advised to seek hospitals that are accredited by Global Healthcare and only work with medical tourism facilitators who are certified by Global Healthcare Accreditation or who have undergone certification from the Certified Medical Travel Professionals (CMTP). This ensures that the highest standards in the industry are met. GHA accredits the top hospitals in the world. These are the best hospitals in the world for quality and providing the best patient experience. Click the link to check out hospitals accredited by the Global Healthcare Accreditation: https://www.globalhealthcareaccreditation.com

Frequently Asked Questions

What actually happens during hyperstimulation of the ovaries?

The patient will take injectable FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) for eight to eleven days, depending on how long the follicles take to mature. This hormone is produced naturally in a woman’s body causing one egg to develop per cycle. Taking the injectable FSH causes several follicles to develop at once, at approximately the same rate. The development is monitored with vaginal ultrasounds and following the patient’s levels of estradiol and progesterone. FSH brand names include Repronex, Follistim, Menopur, Gonal-F and Bravelle. The patient injects herself daily.

What happens during egg retrieval?

When the follicles have developed enough to be harvested, the patient attends an appointment  where she is anesthetized and prepared for the procedure. Next, the doctor uses an ultrasound probe to guide a needle through the vaginal wall and into the follicle of the ovary. The thin needle draws the follicle fluid, which is then examined by an embryologist to find the eggs. The whole process takes about 20 minutes.

What happens to the eggs?

In the next step, the harvested eggs are then fertilized. If the sperm from the potential father, or in some cases, anonymous donor, has normal functionality, the eggs and sperm are placed together in a dish with a nutrient fluid, then incubated overnight to fertilize normally. If the sperm functionality is suboptimal, an embryologist uses Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection to inject a single sperm into a single egg with an extremely precise glass needle.  Once fertilization is complete, the embryos are assessed and prepared to be transferred to the patient’s uterus.

How are the embryos transferred back to the uterus?

The doctor and the patient will discuss the number of embryos to be transferred. The number of successfully fertilized eggs usually determines the number of eggs to be placed in the uterus. Embryos are transferred to the uterus with transabdominal ultrasound guidance. This process does not require anesthesia, but it can cause minor cervical or uterine discomfort. Following transfer, the patient is advised to take at least one days bed rest and two or three additional days of rest, then 10 to 12 days later, two pregnancy tests are scheduled to confirm success. Once two positive tests are completed, an obstetrical ultrasound is ordered to show the sac, fetal pole, yolk sac and fetal heart rate.

Embryoscope©

Built into this technology there is a microscope with a powerful camera that allows the uninterrupted monitoring of the embryo during its first hours of life. In this way, we can keep a close eye on the embryo, from the moment when the oocyte is inseminated and begins to divide into smaller and smaller cells, until it can be transferred to the uterus.

Orthopedics Stem Cell

Knee

Research on mesenchymal stem cells regenerative properties in knee osteoarthritis. In these studies, researchers suggest that Stem Cell Therapy has the potential to regenerate lost cartilage, stop and reverse cartilage degeneration, provide pain relief, and improve patient mobility.

Shoulder

Stem Cell Therapy as an Alternative to Rotator Cuff & Shoulder Replacement Surgery. Stem cell therapy may offer an excellent alternative for patients looking to avoid shoulder joint replacement surgery, as well as many other surgical treatments for shoulder pain.

Ankle

If you suffer from chronic or acute ankle pain or instability due to arthritis, cartilage loss, ligament strain or tear, or tendon damage, then you may benefit from non-surgical stem cell treatments or stem cell-enhanced surgery.

Back Pain

Patients now have a minimally invasive option. Stem cell therapy for back pain and disc herniations can potentially repair the damaged disc or facet joint, restore function, rehydrate the disc, and ultimately alleviate chronic pain.

Anti-Aging Stem Cell

Hair Loss

Stem cell therapy and PRP therapy have been shown to be most effective for: Those in the early stages of hair loss, patients who are not viable candidates for surgery and women who prefer to avoid hair surgery.

Facial Anti-Aging

Aesthetic Anti-Aging. The Aesthetic Stem Cell Localized Treatment is a non-surgical minimally invasive procedure to enhance the appearance of aging skin and hair restoration. This all-natural technique combines dermal injections of bone marrow or adipose tissue derived stem cells and growth factors.

Fertility Stem Cell

Endometrial PRP

The stem cells used for treatment of a thin endometrium include mesenchymal stem cells. In addition, successful repair of the endometrium in pregnancy with stem cells has been reported previously.

Low Ovarian Reserve (PRP)

The treatment uses PRP (Platelet-Rich-Plasma), which with stem cell therapy is the novel therapeutic approach for restoring the quality of the ovarian reserve.Your PRP will contain a physiologic balance of platelets, growth factors and white blood cells tailored specifically for you.

Destinations offering this treatment:
Featured provider offering this treatment:
Providers offering this treatment:
Facilitators offering this treatment:
No items found.