In utero treatment of a fetus with diaphragmatic hernia complicated by hydrops.

A case of diaphragmatic hernia is reported where the prenatal diagnosis was made sonographically in a hydropic fetus and the large associated fluid collection in the right side of the chest was aspirated in utero. Almost complete drainage of the chest and abdominal fluid was accomplished, with resolution of the hydrops and no reaccumulation during the last 2 weeks of the pregnancy. After a spontaneous vaginal delivery, the infant was easily stabilized, and underwent operation in good condition.