Abstract

The cephalic migratian of abdominal viscera through a defect in the diaphragm results in a diaphragmatic hernia. Although the congenital form exists as three distinct anatomic variants, the term "congenital diaphragmatic hernia" typically refers to the posterolateral form. The aim of this report is to review our understanding of this entity that presents with complex multi-system dysfunction with respect to its clinical properties, pathophysiology and surgical treatment.