What is the primary treatment for congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH)?

The primary treatment for congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) focuses on addressing the anatomical defect, which is why surgery, along with NG tube placement, is the correct answer. In CDH, the diaphragm does not fully develop, allowing abdominal contents to move into the thoracic cavity, which can impair respiratory function.

Surgical intervention is necessary to correct the hernia by repositioning the displaced abdominal organs back into the abdomen and repairing the diaphragmatic defect. Additionally, placing an NG tube helps reduce pressure in the stomach and intestines, which can assist in improving lung function by minimizing abdominal distension and facilitating better ventilation.

While monitoring and supportive care are important components of the overall management for infants with CDH, and medications may be used for symptom management, they do not address the underlying structural problem. Chest physiotherapy may help in some cases of respiratory distress but is not the primary treatment for correcting the hernia itself. Hence, surgery combined with NG tube placement is essential for the effective treatment of CDH.