Thoracoscopic Neonatal Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Repair: "How We Do It".

Background: Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a relatively common congenital anomaly, typically requiring repair in the neonatal period. Approaches to surgical repair of a CDH are varied. A small defect may be repaired primarily while a large defect often requires a patch repair. Minimally invasive and open techniques have been reported to have varying benefits and outcomes. Materials and Methods: The authors describe their technique of CDH repair and present a review of the literature. Results: In a stabilized neonate with a small-to-moderate CDH defect, a thoracoscopic primary repair with biological mesh underlay (or a patch repair if needed to reduce tension) represents our approach of choice to treat this pathology. However, attention to specific technical details is required to minimize incidence of recurrence. Conclusions: The data favor a minimally invasive approach to CDH repair in the appropriate patients.