Long-term stooling patterns in infants undergoing primary endorectal pull-through for Hirschsprung's disease

Nomogram for soiling prediction in postsurgery hirschsprung children: a retrospective study

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to develop a nomogram for predicting the probability of postoperative soiling in patients aged greater than 1 year operated for Hirschsprung disease (HSCR).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The authors retrospectively analyzed HSCR patients with surgical therapy over 1 year of age from January 2000 and December 2019 at our department. Eligible patients were randomly categorized into the training and validation set at a ratio of 7:3. By integrating the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator [LASSO] and multivariable logistic regression analysis, crucial variables were determined for establishment of the nomogram. And, the performance of nomogram was evaluated by C-index, area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, calibration curves, and decision curve analysis. Meanwhile, a validation set was used to further assess the model.

RESULTS

This study enrolled 601 cases, and 97 patients suffered from soiling. Three risk factors, including surgical history, length of removed bowel, and surgical procedures were identified as predictive factors for soiling occurrence. The C-index was 0.871 (95% CI: 0.821-0.921) in the training set and 0.878 (95% CI: 0.811-0.945) in the validation set, respectively. And, the AUC was found to be 0.896 (95% CI: 0.855-0.929) in the training set and 0.866 (95% CI: 0.767-0.920) in the validation set. Additionally, the calibration curves displayed a favorable agreement between the nomogram model and actual observations. The decision curve analysis revealed that employing the nomogram to predict the risk of soiling occurrence would be advantageous if the threshold was between 1 and 73% in the training set and 3-69% in the validation set.

CONCLUSION

This study represents the first efforts to develop and validate a model capable of predicting the postoperative risk of soiling in patients aged greater than 1 year operated for HSCR. This model may assist clinicians in determining the individual risk of soiling subsequent to HSCR surgery, aiding in personalized patient care and management.

Outcome of Transanal Endorectal Pull-Through in Patients with Hirschsprung's Disease

BACKGROUND

Transanal endorectal pull-through (TERPT) has become one of the preferred treatments for Hirschsprung's disease (HD) in our setting. This report aims to evaluate the current outcome of TERPT in the setting.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective review of 71 children who had TERPT for histologically-confirmed HD in 11 years (2006-2017) in Nigeria.

RESULTS

There were 48 boys and 23 girls; aged 3 days-12 years at initial presentation (median = 10 months). Three (4.2%) patients had associated anomalies (duodenal atresia; anorectal malformation and sensorineural deafness with hypopigmented skin patches each). Age at TERPT was 2 months to 15 years (median = 3 years), with surgery waiting time of 1 month-14.9 years (median = 18 months). Sixty-six (93.0%) patients had rectosigmoid, four (5.6%) patients had long segment and one (1.4%) had total colonic disease. Five (7.0%) patients with large megacolon and one (1.4%) with the total colonic disease had assisted abdominal resection of the colon at TERPT. Seventeen (23.9%) patients had post-operative complications, including post-operative enterocolitis 8 (11.3%); anastomotic dehiscence 3 (4.2%); retained aganglionic segment 2 (2.8%); anastomotic stenosis 2 (2.8%), resulting in prolonged hospital stay (P = 0.0001; range = 1-30 days; median = 5 days). The mortality rate was 4.2% (3) from malignant hyperthermia in one patient and in 2 patients, the cause of mortality was unclear. Patients were followed up for 3-6 years (median = 3.5 years). Bowel movement stabilised to 2-4 times daily by 6 weeks after surgery.

CONCLUSION

TERPT is a safe treatment for HD in this setting with good short-term outcomes. Longer follow-up is necessary to further evaluate the long-term bowel movement outcomes.!

Quality of life outcomes in children after surgery for Hirschsprung disease and anorectal malformations: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

No systematic review and meta-analysis to date has examined multiple child and parent-reported social and physical quality of life (QoL) in pediatric populations affected by Hirschsprung’s disease (HD) and anorectal malformations (ARM). The objective of this systematic review is to quantitatively summarize the parent-reported and child-reported psychosocial and physical functioning scores of such children.

Methods

Records were sourced from the CENTRAL, EMBASE, and MEDLINE databases. Studies that reported child and parent reported QoL in children with HD and ARM, regardless of surgery intervention, versus children without HD and ARM, were included. The primary outcome was the psychosocial functioning scores, and the secondary outcomes were the presence of postoperative constipation, postoperative obstruction symptoms, fecal incontinence, and enterocolitis. A random effects meta-analysis was used.

Results

Twenty-three studies were included in the systematic review, with 11 studies included in the meta-analysis. Totally, 1678 total pediatric patients with HD and ARM underwent surgery vs 392 healthy controls. Pooled parent-reported standardized mean (SM) scores showed better social functioning after surgery (SM 91.79, 95% CI (80.3 to 103.3), I2=0). The pooled standardized mean difference (SMD) showed evidence for parent-reported incontinence but not for constipation in children with HD and ARM after surgery that had a lower mean QoL score compared with the normal population (SMD −1.24 (-1.79 to –0.69), I2=76% and SMD −0.45, 95% CI (−1.12 to 0.21), I2=75%). The pooled prevalence of child-reported constipation was 22% (95% CI (16% to 28%), I2=0%). The pooled prevalence of parent-reported postoperative obstruction symptoms was 61% (95% CI (41% to 81%), I2=41%).

Conclusion

The results demonstrate better social functioning after surgery, lower QoL scores for incontinence versus controls, and remaining constipation and postoperative obstruction symptoms after surgery in children with HD and ARM.

Current understanding of Hirschsprung-associated enterocolitis: Pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment

Hirschsprung-associated enterocolitis (HAEC) was described in 1886 by Harald Hirschsprung and is a potentially deadly complication of Hirschsprung Disease. HAEC is classically characterized by abdominal distension, fever, and diarrhea, although there can be a variety of other associated symptoms, including colicky abdominal pain, lethargy, and the passage of blood-stained stools. HAEC occurs both pre-operatively and post-operatively, is the presenting symptom of HSCR in up to 25% of infants and varies in overall incidence from 20 to 60%. This article reviews our current understanding of HAEC pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment with discussion of areas of ongoing research, controversy, and future investigation.

Outcome analysis of single-stage transanal endorectal pull through in selected patients with hirschsprung disease

BACKGROUND

Hirschsprung disease is a notable cause of neonatal intestinal obstruction and constipation in older children. Transanal endorectal pull through (TEPT) is a newer technique of definitive management as against staged procedures. The aim of our study is to evaluate the feasibility and outcome of the procedure in selected children with Hirschsprung disease managed by this technique with review of the literature.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Medical records of 12 children who underwent single-stage TEPT in a tertiary care centre over a period of 3 years from 2015 to 2018 were reviewed and retrospectively analysed on the basis of age, investigations, intraoperative parameters, complications, functional outcome and hospital stay.

RESULTS

The median age at surgery was 9 months. Nine patients were boys. The median weight of patients was 7.5 kg. The transition zone was observed at the level of the rectosigmoid in eight patients (66.6%) and sigmoid colon in four patients (33.3%). The mean length of muscle cuff was 3 cm, the mean length of resected bowel was 25 cm, the median operative time was 105 min and the mean hospital stay was 8 days. Perianal excoriation (n = 2) and enterocolitis (n = 1) were complications encountered postoperatively; however, no patient had cuff abscess, anastomotic leak or stricture. Stool frequency initially at 2 weeks was average of six to ten times a day, which gradually reduced to two to three times a day by 3 months postoperatively. None of the patients had faecal soiling or constipation on follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Single-stage transanal endorectal pull through is an effective technique in the management of Hirschsprung disease with minimal complications.

Management and outcomes for long-segment Hirschsprung disease: A systematic review from the APSA Outcomes and Evidence Based Practice Committee

OBJECTIVE

Long-Segment Hirschsprung Disease (LSHD) differs clinically from short-segment disease. This review article critically appraises current literature on the definition, management, outcomes, and novel therapies for patients with LSHD.

METHODS

Four questions regarding the definition, management, and outcomes of patients with LSHD were generated. English-language articles published between 1990 and 2018 were compiled by searching PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. A qualitative synthesis was performed.

RESULTS

66 manuscripts were included in this systematic review. Standardized nomenclature and preoperative evaluation for LSHD are recommended. Insufficient evidence exists to recommend a single method for the surgical repair of LSHD. Patients with LSHD may have increased long-term gastrointestinal symptoms, including Hirschsprung-associated enterocolitis (HAEC), but have a quality of life similar to matched controls. There are few surgical technical innovations focused on this disorder.

CONCLUSIONS

A standardized definition of LSHD is recommended that emphasizes the precise anatomic location of aganglionosis. Prospective studies comparing operative options and long-term outcomes are needed. Translational approaches, such as stem cell therapy, may be promising in the future for the treatment of long-segment Hirschsprung disease.

Bowel management program for pediatric postoperative fecal incontinence in China: A surgeon's experience

The purpose of this article is to report the status of the efficacy of and long-term adherence to the Bowel Management Program (BMP) for fecal incontinence (FI) postoperation in China.Children over 3 years of age with FI postoperation referred to our medical center were included in the study. Evaluations were performed before and 2 years after their clinic visit. The cost of bowel care, improvement in incontinence, health-related quality of life, and family functioning with the BMP were analyzed.A total of 48 children with FI were included in our study, of whom 38 were boys. The median treatment fee was 660.1 dollars. The complications included abdominal pain (4 patients, 8%), occasional vomiting (2 patients, 4%), and hypoglycemia (1 patient, 2%). The incontinence status and health-related quality of life improved significantly after the BMP. Despite the good outcome of the BMP, half of the patients discontinued the program.The BMP is an effective approach to manage FI and improve the patients' quality of life. Poor long-term adherence is currently the main challenge affecting the BMP application in China.

Long-term outcome of bowel function for 110 consecutive cases of Hirschsprung's disease: Comparison of the abdominal approach with transanal approach more than 30years in a single institution - is the transanal approach truly beneficial for bowel function?

BACKGROUND

We compared the long-term outcomes of the bowel function (BF) in Hirschsprung's disease (HD) patients who underwent transanal endorectal pull-through (TA) with those who underwent the Soave-Denda (SD) procedure.

METHODS

Patient data were collected from 1984 to 2015 from 110 HD patients who underwent definitive diagnosis and operation. The follow-up data were analyzed retrospectively. BF was evaluated according to the evacuation score (ES) of the Japan Society of Anorectal Malformation Study Group at 3, 5, 7, 9, and 11years of age.

RESULTS

The operative procedures performed were as follows: SD: 71 (64.5%), TA: 38 (34.5%), and Duhamel: 1 (1.0%). We compared SD with TA. The ES improved chronologically after both procedures, and patients achieved satisfactory results at least 10years after operation. There was no significant difference in the total ES at all ages. The incontinence and frequency of bowel movement scores of TA patients were significantly lower than those of SD patients at several points.

CONCLUSION

TA is simple, less invasive, and adaptive for neonates and small infants. However, regarding the bowel function, TA is not always superior to SD. The surgical technique of TA must be improved according to a detailed understanding of the anatomy.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Retrospective study - level III.

Difference of Postoperative Stool Frequency in Hirschsprung Disease According to Anastomosis Level in a Single-Stage, Laparoscopy-Assisted Transanal Endorectal Pull-Through Procedure

Anorectal innervation that governs sensation, motor function, and rectal accommodation can be influenced by the type of surgical procedure used to treat children with Hirschsprung disease. At our institution, we began to perform single-stage, laparoscopy-assisted transanal endorectal pull-through (LATEP) with submucosal dissection and anastomosis of the ganglionated bowel at 2 different levels relative to the dentate line.This retrospective study describes postoperative stool frequency changes in response to this procedure. Forty infants who underwent single-stage LATEP between September 2003 and April 2012 in a single center by the same surgeon were included in our analysis.The patients were divided in 2 groups: Group A (n = 23) underwent submucosal dissection and anastomosis at 2 mm above the dentate line, and Group B (n = 17) underwent the same procedure with anastomosis 15 mm above the dentate line. Clinical characteristics, clinical findings on the first postoperative visit, and instances of coexisting anomalies did not differ between the 2 groups. Aganglionic segments were found in the rectosigmoid colon in 18 cases (78.2%) in Group A and in 15 cases (88.2%) in Group B. Although the stool frequency was no different at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after the operation, Group B showed significantly fewer bowel movements than Group A after 2 years (3.77 in Group A vs 2.0 in Group B; P = 0.035) and after 3 years (3.92 vs 1.29; P = 0.009) in patients who had aganglionosis of the rectosigmoid colon. The mean follow-up period was 65.87 ± 28.08 months for Group A and 35.59 ± 18.68 for Group B.The level of submucosal dissection and anastomosis in single-stage LATEP influenced the stool frequency in rectosigmoid aganglionosis.

The Hirschsprungs patient who is soiling after what was considered a "successful" pull-through

After surgery for Hirschsprungs disease, most children thrive, have few if any episodes of abdominal distention and enterocolitis, and are fecally continent. However, there exists a small group of patients who do not do well. Either they suffer from persistent distension and enterocolitis or they experience soiling after their pull-through procedure. These patients can be systematically evaluated and successfully treated with a combination of bowel management, dietary changes, and laxatives, and, in certain circumstances, a reoperation.

Reoperative surgery for Hirschsprung disease

Despite most children undergoing a successful pull through for Hirschsprung disease, a small portion of children are left with persistent stooling issues. Most of these stooling issues can be addressed by nonoperative approaches. However, in a small group of remaining children, a reoperation may be necessary. Most children who may need a redo pull-through procedure may have a persistent area of aganglionosis, unremitting enterocolitis, or a torsion or stricture of the pull-through segment. Each of these influences the approach the surgeon must take to correct the presenting problem. The chapter details the diagnostic approach as well as the operative techniques, which best deal with each of these complications.

Long-term outcome of children after single-stage transanal endorectal pull-through for Hirschsprung's disease

BACKGROUND

single-stage transanal endorectal pull-through (TEPT) is a new technique for surgery of Hirschsprung's disease (HD). TEPT can be assisted by laparoscopy (laparoscopic assisted transanal pull-through, LATP) or with non-additional procedure (total transanal endorectal pull-through, TTEP). This study was undertaken to evaluate the long-term outcome of these approaches in children with HD.

METHODS

we retrospectively studied 131 patients (112 males and 19 females) aged 7 days to 14 years who underwent single-stage TEPT from October 2003 to July 2008. The medical records were reviewed for pre-, intra- and immediate post-operative complications. The data on stool pattern and complications were collected during the follow-up. Outcome was measured by continence evaluation score.

RESULTS

no patients had intraoperative complications, but 5 had minor immediate postoperative complications. Late postoperative complications in 12 patients included enterocolitis (4 patients, one with severe enterocolitis died 7 months after operation), soiling (6) and constipation (2). There was a significantly higher frequency of stool in patients aged more than 36 months and those with a resected colon more than 30 cm (P<0.05). LATP showed significantly higher frequency of stool and soiling (P<0.05). Of the 54 patients who were older than 3 years at the time of follow-up, continence score was normal in 10, good in 39, fair in 3, and poor in 2. Seventy-seven patients achieved good bowel control in 12.8 ± 8.11 months after operation, 93.5 5% of whom within 24 months. Stool function was not improved in patients more than 30 months old after operation.

CONCLUSIONS

the long-term outcome of single stage TEPT was excellent. There were few postoperative complications, and stool pattern improved gradually to an excellent level within 24 months. Internal plication can be a good option for reducing the dilated proximal colon.

Biofeedback therapy for bowel problems in adults after surgical treatment for childhood Hirschsprung's disease

OBJECTIVE

To describe the use of biofeedback therapy in management of bowel symptoms after definitive surgery for Hirschsprung's disease.

METHODS

This study describes two cases that exemplify the complex nature of these problems. These patients presented with constipation and faecal seepage several years after receiving treatment for Hirschsprung's disease. The approach to management of these patients including the use of biofeedback therapy is described.

RESULTS

After biofeedback therapy, there was improvement in bowel symptoms in both subjects. In case 1 (constipation), stool frequency increased from 0.5-1 time/week to 5-6 times/week together with improved stool consistency. In case 2 (faecal seepage), the number of incontinence episode decreased from >1/day to complete continence, together with decreased stool frequency. They were still satisfied with their bowel movement at 1-year follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Recognition of the underlying problems and therapy directed towards correcting these abnormalities may lead to significant symptomatic improvement in these patients.

Endorectal pull-through for Hirschsprung's disease-a multicenter, long-term comparison of results: transanal vs transabdominal approach

PURPOSE

Previous studies have reported decreased continence in patients undergoing transanal endorectal pull-through (TERP) for Hirschsprung's disease compared to the older transabdominal approach (TAA). To address this, we examined long-term stooling outcomes in a large, multicenter cohort of patients undergoing either TERP or TAA.

METHODS

Data were collected from 5 large pediatric institutions. Patient families were surveyed using a stooling score system (0-40, best to worst total score). Inclusion criteria included patients older than 3 years and those who had more than 6 months of recovery after pull-through. Those with total colonic aganglionosis were excluded. Statistical analysis included univariate and multivariate linear regression (significance, P < .05).

RESULTS

Two hundred eighty-one patients underwent TERP (192) or TAA (89). Interviews were completed in 149 (104 [52%] TERP vs 45 [52%] TAA). The TAA group had a significantly greater number of daily bowel movements for each respective postoperative year and experienced more early complications (3% vs 1% with >1 complication; P = .061) and late complications (19% vs 4% with >1 complication; P < .001). Although the TAA group had a higher mean enterocolitis score (3.3 +/- 0.4 vs 1.8 +/- 0.2; P < .001), this was not borne out by multivariate regression analysis (P = .276). Parental survey showed that there were no significant differences between procedures in mean total, continence, or stooling pattern scores.

CONCLUSION

Transanal endorectal pull-through was associated with fewer complications and fewer episodes of enterocolitis. In contrast to prior studies, TERP patients did not have a higher rate of incontinence. These results support use of TERP as an excellent surgical approach for children with Hirschsprung's disease.

Hirschsprung disease and fecal incontinence: diagnostic and management strategies

PURPOSE

Ideally, fecal incontinence after operative management for Hirschsprung disease should not occur. If it does, it presents a formidable challenge. The purpose of this study was to describe the causes of fecal incontinence and present our algorithm for its treatment.

METHODS

We reviewed 68 patients with Hirschsprung disease and fecal incontinence referred to us after surgery at other institutions. Patients were evaluated by contrast enema and by an examination under anesthesia to look specifically for the integrity of the anal canal. They were designated as having a dilated colon and constipation or a nondilated colon and a tendency to diarrhea based on their stooling pattern and the appearance of the contrast enema. Medical management was started that included laxatives for those patients with a dilated colon and constipation. For those with a nondilated colon and tendency to diarrhea, the management included loperamide, pectin, and a special dietary regimen (constipating diet, 3 meals per day, and no snacks). Those patients who responded to medical management were retrospectively considered to have been pseudoincontinent. Those who did not respond were considered truly incontinent. The truly incontinent group was treated with enemas alone for those with a dilated colon, or enemas, loperamide, pectin, and a constipating diet for those with a nondilated colon and tendency to diarrhea.

RESULTS

Fifty-six patients had true incontinence and 12 had pseudoincontinence. Of the true incontinent group, 27 had a dilated colon and 29 had a nondilated colon. Five of these patients had a damaged or absent anal canal (anastomosis at the anal skin) and all of them had true incontinence. In the dilated colon group with true incontinence, 23 (85%) patients were clean after treatment. In the nondilated colon group with true incontinence, 23 (79%) were successfully treated. All patients in the pseudoincontinent groups had no soiling after treatment. Of 55 in the truly incontinent group, 39 (70%) had had an endorectal (Soave type) pull-through.

CONCLUSION

Fecal incontinence after operative management of Hirschsprung disease represents a serious problem. Poor surgical technique may be a contributing factor in some of the cases. Successful management depends on the appropriate evaluation, which determines whether the incontinence is true or pseudo, and the type of colon the patient has. Each category can be well treated, leading most of the time to a clean child.

Comprehensive review of procedures for total colonic aganglionosis

PURPOSE

A variety of procedures have been described for the treatment of total colonic aganglionosis (TCA); however, there is no consensus as to a superior operative method. The objective of this review is to evaluate the operative methods used to treat TCA and their effectiveness with respect to morbidity, mortality, rates of enterocolitis, and functional outcomes.

METHODS

We searched Medline (1950-2007) and the Cochrane Library for studies reporting the operative treatment of TCA. Search terms used were "aganglionosis," "Hirschsprung's disease," "total colonic," and "long-segment." Studies evaluated were limited to those that solely discussed the operative outcomes for the treatment of TCA. A meta-analysis was then performed for morbidity outcomes in those studies describing a single operative procedure.

RESULTS

The search yielded 271 articles related to TCA. One hundred twenty-two articles discussed operative treatment of Hirschsprung's disease, and only 26 of these articles discussed operative management of TCA. Nineteen articles were isolated for statistical analysis on the basis of results for perioperative outcomes for a single procedure. These procedures included Martin (4), colonic patch modifications (4), Duhamel (2), endorectal pull-through (1), Kimura (2), Boley (2), Rehbein (2), Soave (1), and J-pouch ileoanal anastomosis (1). Overall mortality was 1.9%. Meta-analysis revealed morbidity rates ranging from 10% to 64% depending on procedure category without significant outliers. Higher morbidity rates were found for the Martin-type procedure using the descending colon but with noted higher within-group variance due to small sample sizes. Enterocolitis was noted in 7 studies with a mean of 22%.

CONCLUSIONS

There is no superior operative method for the treatment of TCA with respect to perioperative morbidity, mortality, enterocolitis, and functional outcomes. The operative technique performed should be selected on center and surgeon familiarity and expertise.

A comparative study of laparoscopy-assisted pull-through and open pull-through for Hirschsprung's disease with special reference to postoperative fecal continence

AIM

The objective of this study is to compare laparoscopy-assisted pull-through (LPT) and open pull-through (OPT) for Hirschsprung's disease with special reference to postoperative fecal continence.

METHODS

Thirteen OPT patients (1991-1996) were reviewed retrospectively, and 22 LPT (1997-2002) were reviewed prospectively. A continence evaluation questionnaire (CEQ, max score = 10) assessing frequency of motions, severity of staining, severity of perianal erosions, anal shape, and requirement for medications was used. Severity of staining was graded as none = 2, occasional = 1.5, often = 1, always = 0.5, and soiling = 0, and severity of staining less than or equal to 1 was defined as moderate to severe incontinence. Presence of fever (peak and duration), raised white cell count (>10,000/microL), and C-reactive protein (>0.3 mg/dL) were used to assess surgical stress.

RESULTS

Pull-through was endorectal in all cases. Mean age at pull-through was not statistically different between the 2 groups. Annual CEQ scores for 7 years after LPT were 6.3, 6.9, 7.3, 7.7, 8.3, 8.9, and 9.0, and after OPT were 5.6, 6.4, 7.0, 7.5, 7.8, 8.3, and 8.4. Although CEQ scores were higher after LPT throughout, the difference was not statistically significant. The incidence of moderate to severe incontinence after 4 years was 54% (7/13) for OPT and 23% (5/22) for LPT, and after 6 years, it was 23% (3/13) for OPT and 0% for LPT. Duration/peak of raised C-reactive protein and duration of fever were significantly less for LPT (P < .01).

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that LPT is less invasive and may provide better postoperative bowel management compared with OPT.

Are the long-term results of the transanal pull-through equal to those of the transabdominal pull-through? A comparison of the 2 approaches for Hirschsprung disease

PURPOSE

The transanal endorectal pull-through (TERPT) is becoming the most popular procedure in the treatment of Hirschsprung disease (HD), but overstretching of the anal sphincters remains a critical issue that may impact the continence. This study examined the long-term outcome of TERPT versus conventional transabdominal (ABD) pull-through for HD.

METHODS

Records of 41 patients more than 3 years old who underwent a pull-through for HD (TERPT, n = 20; ABD, n = 21) were reviewed, and their families were thoroughly interviewed and scored via a 15-item post-pull-through long-term outcome questionnaire. Patients were operated on between the years 1995 and 2003. During this time, our group transitioned from the ABD to the TERPT technique. Total scoring ranged from 0 to 40: 0 to 10, excellent; 11 to 20 good; 21 to 30 fair; 31 to 40 poor. A 2-tailed Student t test, analysis of covariance, as well as logistic and linear regression were used to analyze the collected data with confidence interval higher than 95%.

RESULTS

Overall scores were similar. However, continence score was significantly better in the ABD group, and the stool pattern score was better in the TERPT group. A significant difference in age at interview between the 2 groups was noted; we therefore reanalyzed the data controlling for age, and this showed that age did not significantly affect the long-term scoring outcome between groups.

CONCLUSION

Our long-term study showed significantly better (2-fold) results regarding the continence score for the abdominal approach compared with the transanal pull-through. The stool pattern and enterocolitis scores were somewhat better for the TERPT group. These findings raise an important issue about the current surgical management of HD; however, more cases will need to be studied before a definitive conclusion can be drawn.

Long-term results of bowel function after treatment for Hirschsprung's disease: a 29-year review

Although various surgical procedures have been described to treat Hirschsprung's disease (HD), few studies have evaluated the long-term results of these children. The purpose of this study was to assess the long-term clinical outcome and bowel function of patients with HD. The hospital records of 259 consecutive patients with a confirmed histological diagnosis of HD during 1975-2003 were examined. Data was assessed for age at presentation, sex, clinical presentation, associated anomalies, level of aganglionosis, surgical procedures, complications and bowel function. Follow up was carried out by personal/telephone interviews with patients or their parents. Of the 259 patients with HD, 200 were males (77.2%) and 59 females (22.8%). Intestinal obstruction was the presenting feature in 147 patients (56.8%), intestinal perforation in 5 (1.9%), enterocolitis in 30 (11.6%) and constipation in 77 (29.7%). Thirty-nine patients (15.1%) had associated Down's syndrome. Two hundred and nine patients (80.7%) had rectosigmoid disease, 31 (12%) had long segment disease and 19 (7.3%) had total colonic aganglionosis. Forty-three patients (16.6%) had preoperative enterocolitis. Primary colostomy was performed in 160 patients and a primary pull through in 90. Seven patients had a sphincteromyectomy for ultrashort HD. Two patients died prior to treatment. Various pull through procedures were performed in these patients. Postoperative complications included: pelvic abcess in 2, rectal stricture in 10, perianal excoriation in 7, anastomotic leak in 8, intestinal obstruction in 3, wound dehiscence in 1, stomal prolapse/stenosis in 5, rectovesical fistula in 2 and enterocolitis in 56. Five patients underwent a redo pull through and 46 required a post pull through sphincterectomy. At the time of follow-up, 27 were lost to follow-up, 9 died, 18 had permanent stomas and 4 were too young to assess bowel function. Of the remaining 194 patients, bowel function was normal in 132 (68%). Twenty patients (10.3%) had soiling and 42 (21.7%) had constipation requiring laxatives or enemas. There was no difference in bowel function in relation to type of pull through operation. Only 34% of patients with Down's syndrome had normal continence. The majority of patients with HD continue to have disturbances of bowel function for many years before attaining normal continence.

Prospective analysis of primary modified Georgeson's laparoscopy-assisted endorectal pull-through for Hirschsprung's disease: short- to mid-term results

The aim of this study was to analyze the short- to mid-term outcome of primary modified Georgeson's laparoscopy-assisted endorectal pull-through (PMGLEPT) for Hirschsprung's disease (HD). HD patients treated by PMGLEPT were evaluated prospectively by a single surgeon using a standard structured questionnaire to assess complications, incidence of enterocolitis, and evaluate continence (CE). CE involved scoring five parameters (frequency of motions, severity of staining/soiling, severity of perianal erosions, anal shape, and requirement for medications) on a 3-point scale (0, 1, and 2 for each parameter). Thus, scores for CE were: 10 = normal, 8-9 = good, 6-7 = fair, and 0-5 = poor. Our modifications include transanal rectal dissection starting below or on the dentate line, near total excision of the posterior rectal cuff, and intraoperative acetylcholinesterase staining to accurately identify normal colon. Patients with total colon aganglionosis or trisomy-21 were excluded, leaving 33 cases of PMGLEPT performed between 1997 and 2004. Mean operative age was 11.0 months. Follow-up ranged from 8 months to 7 years (mean 4.0 years). There were no intraoperative complications. Post-PMGLEP, bowel obstruction occurred in 1 subject who required middle colic division for pull-through (PT), and enterocolitis occurred in 3 (9.1%) of 33 patients. In 20 subjects aged over 3 years with a follow-up period of more than 12 months, final CE was normal in 5, good in 10, fair in 4, and poor in 1, despite staining/soiling being present in 12 (60%) of 20 subjects. None of the 33 had constipation. Our results suggest that PMGLEPT is safe with acceptable outcome in the short- to mid-term. However, careful long-term follow-up is mandatory as there appears to be a relatively high incidence of staining/soiling on short- to mid-term follow-up.

Persistent obstructive symptoms after surgery for Hirschsprung's disease: development of a diagnostic and therapeutic algorithm

BACKGROUND

Although most children with Hirschsprung's disease (HD) do well after pull-through surgery, some continue to have persistent obstructive symptoms that may lead to significant morbidity. The author's goal was to develop an organized algorithm for the workup and ultimate management of these symptoms.

METHODS

All children referred to the author with severe obstructive symptoms after a pull-through for HD were evaluated using an algorithm based on 5 potential etiologies, and appropriate therapeutic interventions were instituted.

RESULTS

A total of 49 children were evaluated over 7 years. Mechanical obstruction was found using rectal examination and barium enema in 7, of which, 2 had resection of a Duhamel spur, and 5 had a repeat pull-through (after failed dilatation). Rectal biopsy results showed aganglionosis in 10, of whom, 8 underwent repeat pull-through, and 2 refused further surgery. Abnormal intestinal motility or intestinal neuronal dysplasia was found proximal to the aganglionic segment in 10 children using colonic and small bowel manometry or laparoscopic biopsies; 4 of these had additional colon resected and repeat pull-through, and 6 were treated with a bowel management routine, cecostomy, or stoma formation. Internal sphincter achalasia was felt to be the primary cause of symptoms in 14, and all were treated with intrasphincteric botulinum toxin. Eight were found not to fall into any of the above groups and were treated medically for presumed functional megacolon; 2 of these ultimately had a colostomy.

CONCLUSIONS

An organized approach to the diagnosis and management of obstructive symptoms in a child after a pull-through for HD permits accurate diagnosis and effective treatment in the majority of cases.

Experience with primary laparoscopy-assisted endorectal pull-through for Hirschsprung's disease

From October 1996 to July 2001, 61 patients received primary laparoscopy-assisted endorectal pull-through (LAERPT) for biopsy-proven Hirschsprung's disease (HD) at Mackay Memorial Hospital. The patients' ages at operation ranged from 7 days to 8 years. The patients were followed up for an average of 3.8 years (range 1-5.5 years). Major complications occurred in five (8.1%) patients, of whom four had surgical complications (two instances of anastomotic leakage, one colon perforation, and one delayed formation of colovesical fistula) and one had postoperative Salmonella infection-induced colonic stricture. The five patients required a diverting colostomy and a redo-pull-through procedure. Postoperative enterocolitis developed in 13 (21%) infants. All of them had enterocolitis before the diagnosis of HD was established. The majority of the episodes of postoperative enterocolitis were mild and resolved spontaneously, but four neonates were hospitalized with significant systemic manifestations, and two of them needed a second operation to solve the problem. After primary LAERPT, stooling frequency in young infants declined rapidly from 10.5+/-3.2 to 4.4+/-1.6 bowel movements per day in the first 3 months and more slowly thereafter. Most of these infants had regular bowel movements one to two times per day 1 year after operation. Continence evaluation of the 43 patients over 3 years of age was graded as normal in 24 (56%) patients and good in 19 (44%) patients. Of the 13 patients between 1 and 3 years of age, 11 (85%) had regular normal stools, and two (15%) had occasional soiling. From the current study, the authors concluded that primary LAERPT is a safe and effective method of managing HD with excellent continence results. Considering the complications of surgery and postoperative enterocolitis, patients with long segment aganglionosis, severe enterocolitis, or prominently dilated colon are not good candidates for primary LAERPT.

Staged laparoscopic-assisted pull-through for Hirschsprung's disease

The authors report 3 cases of Hirschsprung's disease that were treated by laparoscopic-assisted transanal pull-through after a colostomy already had been performed. Two of these patients presented with severe enterocolitis, and a primary laparoscopic-assisted single-stage transanal pull through was not feasible. The third patient had a colostomy performed and was referred to us for a definitive procedure. Many centers over the world now perform laparoscopic-assisted single-stage pull-through as a primary modality of management for Hirschsprung's disease. But for a country like India, where patients with Hirschsprung's disease present or are referred late and frequently with enterocolitis, performing a primary procedure is not possible in all cases. However, this has been used as the definitive procedure after performing a diverting colostomy and histopathologic determination of the length of the aganglionic bowel. The procedure gives excellent results and permits early postoperative feeding, early hospital discharge, and good cosmetic results.

Further evidence on totally transanal one-stage pull-through procedure for Hirschsprung's disease

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Fifteen consecutive children aged 20 days to 12 years with biopsy-proven Hirschsprung's Disease (HD) underwent a transanal pull-through procedure over a 17-month period. These patients have been divided into 2 groups. The first was a series of 9 patients, which helped us gain familiarity and confidence with technical and postoperative gestational problems, and the second series was of 6 patients, which fully corroborates and adds further evidence on the minimally invasive nature of the technique. Mucosectomy of aganglionic bowel, access to the peritoneal cavity, division of rectosigmoid mesenteric vessels, pull-through of normoganglionic colon, colectomy, and coloanal anastomosis all were performed transanally. Patients underwent a program of progressive anal dilatations and were assessed for postoperative clinical course, continence, constipation, diarrhea, postoperative enterocolitis, perianal excoriations, and anal stricture.

RESULTS

Mucosectomy was done under direct vision. Operating time ranged from 150 to 350 minutes. The average length of bowel resected was 13.5 cm with a range of 8 cm to 25 cm. There were neither intraoperative nor significant postoperative complications. All but 2 patients accepted full oral feedings on postoperative day 2. Mean hospital stay in the first series of 9 patients was 7 days, range, 5 to 12 days; that of the second series of 6 patients was 5 days, range, 4 to 8 days. All children currently experience 1 to 6 bowel movements per day at a follow-up period of 1 to 17 months.

CONCLUSIONS

A one-stage pull-through procedure for HD can be performed successfully with a completely transanal approach. This technique is associated with excellent early clinical results. Many more cases and a longer follow-up period will be required to compare long-term results with other one-stage procedures for definitive treatment of HD.

Transanal endorectal pull-through for Hirschsprung's disease: experience with 68 patients

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the indications, results, and complications of transanal endorectal pull-through (TEPT) in the management of recto-sigmoid Hirschsprung's disease (HD).

METHODS

Between November 1998 and March 2002, 68 TEPT procedures were performed in infants and children. The patients' ages ranged from 6 days to 13 years. The primary diagnosis in all 68 patients was Hirschsprung's disease confined to the recto-sigmoid region. All children had their operations done without construction of preoperative colostomy except for one. Follow-up period ranged from 3 to 39 months (mean, 21 months).

RESULTS

The mean operating time was 90 minutes, and average length of bowel resected was 25 cm. Sixty-two patients had satisfactory results without complications. Blood transfusion was needed in only 11 patients. Recovery was very fast, and patients often were hungry within 24 hours. Feeding was resumed within 48 hours. One patient required laparotomy during the procedure owing to injury to the urethra. Two patients required colostomy 3 and 5 days after surgery respectively, because of delayed leakage. Three patients suffered from attacks of enterocolitis 6 to 9 months postoperatively. There was increased frequency of defecation (5 to 15 times daily) for 4 to 6 weeks after surgery in all the patients. There was no constipation, no incontinence, no cuff abscess, and no mortality in any of the patients. Average frequency of defecation was 1 to 3 times daily after 3 months. The cost of the TEPT technique was almost half that of the open surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

TEPT takes less time, has less bleeding, shorter hospital stay, less morbidity, and earlier recovery than similar open pull-through procedures. The hazards and morbidities associated with laparotomy and colostomy may be avoided with a one-stage technique in Hirschsprung's disease confined to the recto-sigmoid region. Careful long-term follow-up is required to assess continence and sexual function.

Primary pull-through for Hirschsprung’s disease

The first report of a successful primary pull-through for Hirschsprung's disease using the endorectal pull-through (ERPT) was by So et al. (J. Pediatr. Surg. 15 (1980) 470; J. Pediatr. Surg. 33 (1998) 673). Subsequently, because of the simplified nature of this approach and the potential for cost savings, several groups have reported excellent results with this procedure. In addition to the ERPT, both the Duhamel and Swenson procedures have been performed in a one-stage fashion. More recently, primary laparoscopic approaches for each of these techniques have been utilized. The purpose of this review is to discuss the technique of primary pull-through, the peri-operative management and a summary of clinical results.

Stooling and manometric findings after primary pull-throughs in Hirschsprung's disease: Perineal versus abdominal approaches

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Primary pull-through via a perineal approach (PA) has recently been reported for Hirschsprung's disease. One criticism of this approach is that it requires a large amount of retraction on the anal sphincters. Additionally, because the procedure is new, most patients undergoing a PA are too young to assess long-term continence rates. This study examined early stooling patterns, anal sphincteric pressures, and number of enterocolitic episodes in infants who underwent a PA. Results were compared with a conventional combined transabdominal and perineal approach (TA).

METHODS

Over 2 years, 26 pull-through procedures were performed. Nine of those were PA, and 17 were TA. Twelve of the 26 patients had formal manometric studies postoperatively. Results are expressed as mean +/- SD; unpaired t test and Chi;(2) were used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

Mean follow-up post-pull-through was 23 +/- 2.3 months for the TA and 14 +/- 1.9 months for the PA. Manometric resting sphincter pressure in the TA group averaged 79 +/- 17 mm Hg compared with 76 +/- 21 mm Hg in the PA group (P =.78). Number of stools per day was 3.3 +/- 0.6 in the TA group compared with 2.2 +/- 0.3 in the PA group (P =.17). Post-pull-through enterocolitis was experienced by 53% of the TA group (mean, 1.5 +/- 0.6 episodes) and 56% of the PA group (mean 0.9 +/- 0.4 episodes) for a P =.08 by Chi;(2) analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

Manometric sphincter pressure and enterocolitic episodes after a PA for Hirschsprung's disease appear to be similar to results obtained with a conventional TA. Evaluation of early stooling frequency shows a comparable frequency after a PA. This suggests that both methods are safe, and the PA does not appear to compromise sphincter integrity.

Soave procedure for infants with Hirschsprung's disease

OBJECTIVE

Traditionally the surgical treatment of Hirschsprung's disease (H.D.) includes preliminary colostomy in normally innervated bowel followed by one of several pull through procedures. The transanal single stage Soave procedure eliminated the need for preliminary colostomy and intraabdominal dissection. It is a recent concept in the management of this disease, and this is the first experience to be reported from India.

METHODS

Four children aged 3 weeks to one year underwent transanal pull through procedure over a two month period. A rectal mucosectomy was performed starting 0.5 cm. proximal to the dentate line and extending proximally to the level of intraperitoneal rectum. The muscular sleeve was divided circumferentially to allow the full thickness mobilization of the proximal colon. Ganglion cells were confirmed by frozen section and bowel was transected. The rectal muscular cuff was divided longitudinally and the anastomosis was completed.

RESULTS

Operative time including the frozen section averaged 160 minutes and average length of the bowel resected was 22 cm. There were no postoperative complications and all patients were discharged on seventh postoperative day. Median follow-up was 5 months (4-6 months) and stool output ranged from 2-4 per day.

CONCLUSION

The authors conclude that a single stage transanal Soave's pull through for Hirschsprung's Disease can be performed successfully in infants. When compared to conventional pull through procedure, it has the potential advantage of lower cost, less risk of damage to pelvic structures, absence of any abdominal incision, a lower incidence of intraperitoneal bleeding and adhesion formation. The preliminary functional results suggest that the patients gain early bowel function post operatively without soiling or constipation.

A decade of experience with the primary pull-through for hirschsprung disease in the newborn period: a multicenter analysis of outcomes

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether use of a primary pull-through would result in equivalent perioperative and long-term complications compared with the two-stage approach.

SUMMARY BACKGROUND DATA

During the past decade, the authors have advanced the use of a primary pull-through for Hirschsprung disease in the newborn, and preliminary results have suggested excellent outcomes.

METHODS

From May 1989 through September 1999, 78 infants underwent a primary endorectal pull-through (ERPT) procedure at four pediatric surgical sites. Data were collected from medical records and a parental telephone interview (if the child was older than 3 years) to assess stooling patterns. A similar group of patients treated in a two-stage fashion served as a historical control.

RESULTS

Mean age at the time of ERPT was 17.8 days of life. Comparing primary ERPT with a two-stage approach showed a trend toward a higher incidence of enterocolitis in the primary ERPT group compared with those with a two-stage approach (42.0% vs. 22.0%). Other complications were either lower in the primary ERPT group or similar, including rate of soiling and development of a bowel obstruction. Median number of stools per day was two at a mean follow-up of 4.1 +/- 2.5 years, with 83% having three or fewer stools per day.

CONCLUSIONS

Performance of a primary ERPT for Hirschsprung disease in the newborn is an excellent option. Results were comparable to those of the two-stage procedure. The greater incidence of enterocolitis appears to be due to a lower threshold in diagnosing enterocolitis in more recent years.

Transanal endorectal coloanal surgery for Hirschsprung's disease: experience in two centers

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Transanal mucosal proctectomy with low coloanal anastomosis has been used widely in the treatment of rectal malignancies, ulcerative colitis, and familial polyposis. The use of this technique for Hirschsprung's disease is a relatively new concept. The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the results of transanal endorectal coloanal anastomosis (TECA) for Hirschsprung's disease from 2 centers.

METHODS

All children who underwent TECA for Hirschsprung's disease at Alder Hey Children's Hospital, Liverpool, England from January 1995 to December 1998 (n = 41) and the Children's Hospital, Helsinki, Finland from June 1988 to December 1998 (n = 95) were evaluated. Patient demographics, age at diagnosis, initial management, length of aganglionic segment, and age at operation were documented. Postoperative complications and functional outcome were analyzed.

RESULTS

Patient demographics were similar in the 2 centers. Age at diagnosis was less than 1 month in 71% of children at Liverpool, compared with 53% at Helsinki. Sixteen (39%) patients in Liverpool and 75 (79%) patients in Helsinki underwent primary TECA without colostomy. Postoperative enterocolitis occurred in 14 of 136 patients (10%). An ischemic stricture of the colon was documented in 4 children in the Liverpool series, 2 of whom had TECA as a salvage procedure after a previously failed Duhamel pull-through operation. Frequency of bowel movements, seen in the immediate postoperative period in most patients gradually improved with time from a median of 5 (range, 2 to 12) bowel movements a day at 3 months after TECA to 2 (range, 1 to 6) bowel movements a day at 2 years' follow-up. Assessment of continence was possible in 51 of 136 patients (37%) over the age of 4 years. Thirty-nine children had normal bowel function giving an overall success rate of 76%.

CONCLUSIONS

Transanal endorectal coloanal anastomosis is a good technique for treatment of Hirschsprung's disease with few operation-related complications. Based on the data emerging from these 2 centers the functional outcome is highly satisfactory and comparable with other established procedures.

Transanal mucosectomy in the treatment of Hirschsprung's disease

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

Transanal mucosectomy of the aganglionic segment of colon is a critical step in minimally invasive surgery for Hirschsprung's disease. The purpose of this study was to examine the outcome of patients undergoing transanal mucosectomy.

METHODS

From January 1979 to November 1998, 26 patients (ages 25 days to 17 years) underwent transanal mucosectomy for Hirschsprung's disease. Seventeen (65%) had partial transanal mucosectomy (PTM; 1979 to 1998) and 9 (35%) complete transanal mucosectomy (CTM; 1995 to 1998). In PTM, a 2- to 3-cm mucosal dissection was begun 1 cm above the dentate line in conjunction with transabdominal endorectal dissection (modified Soave). In CTM, the entire mucosal dissection was performed transanally as part of a laparoscopically assisted Soave procedure. Results were obtained by chart review and personal communication. Patients were assessed clinically for continence where age appropriate (>3 years) and for development of constipation, postoperative enterocolitis, and anal stricture.

RESULTS

One of 16 (6.2%) of the PTM group was incontinent versus none (4 patients) in the CTM group. Five of 17 (29.4%) of the PTM group were constipated versus 4 of 9 (44.4%) in the CTM group (t test, P = not significant). Postoperative enterocolitis developed in 4 of 17 (23.5%) of the PTM group versus 6 of 9 (66.6%) in the CTM group (t test, P<.05). Three of 6 (50%) of the CTM group versus none in the PTM group required hospitalization for bowel rest, rectal washouts, and antibiotics. All patients were well at the time of the report. Anal stricture was not seen in either group.

CONCLUSIONS

Constipation and postoperative enterocolitis are a significant feature of transanal mucosectomy for Hirschsprung's disease deserving close surveillance, especially in patients in whom the entire mucosal dissection was performed transanally. Continence appears to be satisfactorily preserved from these preliminary results.

Long-term outcome after Hirschsprung's disease: patients' perspectives

BACKGROUND

The results of treatment of Hirschsprung's disease (HD) are not uniformly successful, and the parents' and child's interpretation of the outcome may be different from that of the surgeon.

METHODS

One hundred seven children treated for HD over 22 1/2 years were reviewed retrospectively. Adequate clinical data regarding functional outcomes were available in 78, of which, an additional questionnaire was completed by 69. Follow-ups were divided into type of pull-through (PT), age at time of PT (< 4 months and > 4 months) and age at last follow-up (< 5 years, 5 to 15 years and > 15 years). Degrees of constipation and incontinence were determined using standard scoring systems.

RESULTS

The median age at presentation was 9 days (range, 1 day to 9.4 years), and 41% presented within the first 72 hours of life. Aganglionosis extended to the rectosigmoid region in 75%, proximal to the splenic flexure in 11%, and total colon in 6.5%. Treatments included a Soave procedure in 57, Duhamel in 31, Swenson in 10, and sphincterotomy-myectomy in two. No surgical treatment or only a decompressing enterostomy was performed in two and three children, respectively, and two underwent a PT elsewhere. Complications related to the enterostomy occurred in 39 patients. Postoperative enterocolitis and bowel obstructions occurred in nine and 13 patients, respectively. Staple-line fusion, anastomotic stenosis, and anastomotic leak occurred in nine, 17, and two patients, respectively. Seven children died, only one directly related to the PT. Aside from more constipation associated with the Duhamel procedure, functional outcomes were not significantly different among the types of PTs. No differences were found between patients who underwent a PT at less than 4 months of age and those at greater than 4 months of age. Significantly, however, fecal continence was relatively poor in those less than 15 years of age (50% with only fair to poor continence), but improved markedly once the child reached later adolescence (8%, P < .0002). Correspondingly, the negative impact on the child's social life was much greater in the younger age groups compared with later adolescence (50% of those aged 5 to 15 years v 18% of those > 15 years; P = .007). The effect on the families' lives mirrored this. Finally, only 64% of patients were interpreted as having "normal" stooling habits, yet 90% of parents were moderately or very satisfied with their child's outcome, with no differences found among the three sets of comparison groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The outcomes for HD are not always as good as surgeons may perceive; long term follow-up is important. With time, most children significantly improve with respect to fecal continence, but this may not be until later adolescence. In the meantime, the impacts on their social and family lives may be significant. Despite high complication rates, often poor continence, and relative infrequency of normal stooling habits, most parents are satisfied with their child's outcome and adapt to their functional abnormalities along with them.

Transanal one-stage Soave procedure for infants with Hirschsprung's disease

PURPOSE

Many centers perform a one-stage pull-through procedure for Hirschsprung's disease (HD) diagnosed in infancy. The authors have developed a one-stage pullthrough procedure using a transanal approach that eliminates the need for intraabdominal dissection.

METHODS

Nine children aged 3 weeks to 18 months with biopsy-proven HD underwent a transanal pull-through procedure over a 13-month period. A rectal mucosectomy was performed starting 0.5 cm proximal to the dentate line, and extending proximally to the level of the intraperitoneal rectum. In the first eight children, intraperitoneal position was confirmed with a laparoscope placed through a 3- to 5-mm port in the base of the umbilicus. The muscular sleeve was divided circumferentially to allow full-thickness mobilization of the rectosigmoid junction. Manual transanal traction permitted direct visualization and division of mesenteric vessels with transanal mobilization above the transition zone. Ganglion cells were confirmed by frozen section, and the bowel was transected. The rectal muscular cuff was divided longitudinally, and the anastomosis was completed. The laparoscope confirmed orientation and adequate hemostasis. In a ninth patient, the identical procedure was performed, but with the laparoscope used only for confirmation at the end of the procedure.

RESULTS

Operative time, including frozen sections, averaged 194 minutes (range, 169 to 250 minutes), and the average length of bowel resected was 12 cm (range, 7.5 to 22 cm). Four of the nine patients were discharged on postoperative day (POD) 1, four on POD 2, and one patient with Down's syndrome was discharged on POD 6. Median follow-up was 6 months (range, 3 to 14 months). One death occurred 2.5 months postoperatively secondary to sudden infant death syndrome. Complications included postoperative apnea spells (n = 1), mild enterocolitis (n = 2), constipation (n = 1), anastomotic stricture(n = 1), and muscularcuff narrowing (n = 1); each responded to nonoperative management. Stool output has ranged from four to eight per day.

CONCLUSION

A one-stage pull-through for HD can be performed successfully using a transanal approach without intraperitoneal dissection. This procedure is associated with excellent clinical results and permits early postoperative feeding, early hospital discharge, and no visible scars.

The approach to common abdominal diagnoses in infants and children. Part II

Part I (August 1998 issue, Pediatric Clinics), discussed appendicitis and common abdominal diagnoses in infants and in children associated with vomiting, as well as special considerations in the evaluation of immunologically suppressed and neurologically impaired pediatric patients. In this article, the authors continue to discuss the evaluation of constipation, gastrointestinal bleeding, common abdominal masses, and recurrent abdominal pain.