Bilateral diaphragmatic hernia followed by fetal ultrasonography. A report of two cases.

Two cases of bilateral congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) followed by fetal ultrasonography were described. Although many cases of CDH are diagnosed by fetal ultrasonography, it is difficult to diagnose bilateral CDH in utero, which is a relatively rare and fatal condition. Two fetuses were diagnosed as having left CDH associated with severe anomalies. However, a retrospective review of fetal ultrasonography indicated elevation of the liver in the right posterior chest. Both patients died shortly after surgical repair for left CDH despite the use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Diagnosis of bilateral CDH by fetal ultrasonography and the evaluation of its prognosis were discussed. Copyright 2001 S. Karger AG, Basel