Prospective longitudinal evaluation of lung function during the first year of life after repair of congenital diaphragmatic hernia

Infants with congenital diaphragmatic hernia have decreased expiratory flows and increased functional residual capacity within the first year of life. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation-treated patients with congenital diaphragmatic hernia may have more respiratory morbidity and concomitant growth impairment. Close follow-up beyond the neonatal period is therefore required.