Why is surgical intervention considered for children with congenital diaphragmatic hernia?

Surgical intervention for congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is primarily focused on stabilizing respiratory function. Congenital diaphragmatic hernia occurs when the diaphragm does not develop properly, allowing abdominal organs to move into the chest cavity and impairing lung development and function. This malformation can lead to significant respiratory distress in affected infants due to impaired lung expansion and reduced lung capacity.

The surgical repair of the diaphragm helps to reposition the abdominal organs back into the abdomen, thereby freeing up space for lung growth and function. This restoration is critical, as improving respiratory function is essential for the child’s overall health and survival. Children with CDH often face immediate respiratory failure and require mechanical ventilation, making it vital to address the structural problem through surgical means.

While considerations for cosmetic appearance, preventing chronic illness, and enhancing physical activity tolerance are important in the broader context of a child's overall health, they are secondary to the immediate need to address the potentially life-threatening respiratory complications caused by the hernia. Thus, the stabilization of respiratory function is the primary goal of surgical intervention in these cases.