Post-surgical Outcomes of Different Surgical Techniques in Hirschsprung's Disease: A Literature Review

Abstract

Hirschsprung's disease (HD) is a rare condition that affects newborns and is characterized by the lack of ganglion cells in the colon. Typical symptoms include difficulty passing stool, vomiting, and trouble feeding. Various surgical methods are available to manage the condition. The aim of the study is to investigate and compare the post-surgical outcomes of different surgical techniques used in the treatment of HD. A thorough literature search was conducted using various electronic databases to identify relevant studies to be referred to. Double-blinded screening of the identified articles led to the final selection of 40 out of 440 HD, including transanal endorectal pull-through (TERPT), laparoscopic approaches, and modified techniques. Several studies have investigated surgical procedures for HD, including TERPT, laparoscopic methods, and modified techniques. These have shown positive outcomes, with fewer complications, improved bowel function, and favorable cosmetic results. Individual patient characteristics and surgeon expertise should guide procedure selection. Surgery for HD aims to restore normal bowel function, but post-surgical outcomes can include constipation or fecal incontinence. Complications like enterocolitis, anastomotic stricture, and sphincter damage may occur. Laparoscopic approaches have shorter hospital stays. However long-term follow-up is essential to assess quality of life, psychological well-being, and potential side effects.

Keywords: hirschsprung disease (hd); laparoscopic-assisted tept; laparoscopy; pediatric gastroenterology; pediatric surgery; postoperative outcomes; transanal endorectal pull-through (tept).

Figure 1. PRISMA flow chart with the description of studies inclusion

PRISMA: Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses