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Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

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ModerateNeonatologyCongenital Diaphragmatic HerniaRACP Paediatrics

A term newborn presents with respiratory distress, a scaphoid abdomen, and absent breath sounds on the left. CXR shows bowel loops in the left hemithorax with mediastinal shift to the right. What is the diagnosis?

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Correct answer: A — Left congenital diaphragmatic hernia

CDH (Bochdalek type): bowel herniates through a posterolateral diaphragmatic defect into the chest, causing pulmonary hypoplasia and mediastinal shift. Management: intubation (avoid bag-mask), NGT decompression, delayed surgical repair after stabilisation.

Reference: RCH Melbourne – 2024 – Clinical Practice Guidelines: Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia