Abstract 23

Background We aimed to determine the type of information given to parents of a baby with CDH during counselling. A postal questionnaire was sent to colleagues concerning this which also assessed their knowledge of outcome for CDH.

Subjects All obstetricians, neonatologists, paediatricians, surgeons and paediatric intensivists in our health region were sent a brief questionnaire along with an explanatory letter. One month later, those not responding were sent a reminder and further questionnaire.

Results Sixty percent of questionnaires were returned (100% neonatologists, 81% paediatricians, 41% obstetricians). Overall median percentage perceived mortality was 80% if CDH was diagnosed before 20 weeks post menstrual age, 54% after 25 weeks, 50% if born alive after 25 weeks and 40% if born alive at term. Perceived outcome by paediatricians was significantly worse for diagnosis after 25 weeks and following live birth after 25 weeks (p<0.05). Clinicians in peripheral units tended to perceive a worse outcome than those in tertiary centres. No prognostic features were suggested in 38% cases (41% suggested the presence of other anomalies indicated a poor prognosis). References were cited in 26% of respondents.

Conclusions Information given to parents regarding outcome for CDH varies significantly. Accessible outcome guidelines are needed for clinicians to aide in parental counselling.