With a collaborative and multidisciplinary team of both adult and pediatric experts, we ensure seamless care from prenatal and infant stages through adulthood. Our facilities are located under one roof and allow us to address unique challenges at different life stages, with specialists such as pediatric surgery, thoracic surgery, pulmonology, adult general surgery, and OB/GYN working together for optimal patient outcomes.

For children, surgical services are provided at Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital. For adults with CDH, surgical services are offered at Memorial Hermann – Texas Medical Center. All surgical services are provided by faculty physicians with McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston.

UTHealth Houston prioritizes family-centered care, engaging patients and their families in collaborative decision-making for optimal care plans. We offer families comprehensive information about CDH and involve them in the decision-making process from the outset. Our dedicated team of nurses and affiliated physicians collaborate closely to deliver top-quality care to our patients and their families.

We recognize the distinct health concerns that women with CDH may encounter. Whether it involves obstetric care during pregnancy or managing gynecological and internal medicine issues, we offer personalized and comprehensive support to address their individual needs. As women with CDH contemplate starting a family, we stand ready to assist in navigating the distinctive obstacles they may face.

We prioritize proactive care, understanding that every individual’s experience with CDH varies. Whether you require routine follow-up visits for persistent health issues, have encountered recent changes in your health, seek reassurance about your well-being, or simply wish to address questions and concerns, we provide tailored support.

As patients with CDH transition into adulthood, they may encounter specific health challenges that warrant specialized care. Adults with CDH face potential risks, including:

• Gastrointestinal (GI) issues: These may include gastroesophageal reflux, bowel obstructions, and other challenges related to the intestines such as constipation.
• Respiratory challenges: These can include shortness of breath, pulmonary infections, or pulmonary hypertension, which can adversely impact a person’s quality of life.
• Pregnancy planning: For female patients, specialized OB/GYN and internal medicine-related care may be necessary before, during, and beyond pregnancy.

Orthopedic complexities: Challenges with the spine, chest, and ribs are among the orthopedic issues that may arise in adult CDH patients.

Our CDH team heads the Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Study Group (CDHSG), a worldwide alliance of centers dedicated to monitoring CDH patient outcomes using a specialized international database. Thus far, this collaborative effort has tracked the progress of over 14,000 CDH patients, aiming to understand the impact of the condition, various interventions, and resultant outcomes. Hosted at UTHealth Houston and Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital, the registry encompasses centers from around the globe.