Abstract
Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a rare developmental defect of the lungs and diaphragm, with substantial morbidity and mortality. Although internationally established treatment guidelines have been developed, most recommendations are still expert opinions. Trials in patients with CDH, more in particular randomized controlled trials, are rare. Only three multicenter trials in patients with CDH have been completed, which focused on fetoscopic tracheal occlusion and ventilation mode. Another four are currently recruiting, two with a focus on perinatal transition and two on the treatment of pulmonary hypertension. Herein, we discuss major challenges and pitfalls when performing a clinical trial in infants with CDH. It is essential to select the correct intervention and dose, select the appropriate population of CDH patients, and also define a relevant endpoint that allows a realistic duration and sample size. New statistical approaches might increase the feasibility of randomized controlled trials in patients with CDH. One should also timely perform the trial when there is still equipoise. But above all, awareness of policymakers for the relevance of investigator-initiated trials is essential for future clinical research in this rare disease.
Original language | English |
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Article number | 852843 |
Journal | Frontiers in Pediatrics |
Volume | 10 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 15 Apr 2022 |
Bibliographical note
Funding Information:SC-dO and DT were supported by a Grant from the Sophia Children's Hospital Foundation (SSWO 17-29) and CDH UK (16EM01).
Publisher Copyright:
Copyright © 2022 Cochius - den Otter, Deprest, Storme, Greenough and Tibboel.