Utility of Fetal Intraperitoneal Saline Infusion in the Prenatal Evaluation of Diaphragmatic Hernia

The diagnosis of a diaphragmatic hernia at 18 weeks gestation by instillation of normal saline into the fetal peritoneal cavity under ultrasound guidance is described. The procedure established the diaphragmatic defect with certainty, outlined the contents of the hernia within the thorax, and demonstrated the degree of secondary lung compression.