What is Hirschsprung's disease

Hirschsprung's disease is a congenital disease in which part of the colon cannot move normally due to abnormal development of ganglion cells. It is mainly manifested as intractable constipation, abdominal distension and intestinal obstruction. To solve this problem, surgery is usually required for fundamental repair, assisted by dietary adjustment and postoperative rehabilitation management.

1. Causes

The main causes of Hirschsprung's disease include the following:

1. Genetic factors: Studies have shown that congenital megacolon is related to certain gene mutations. For example, mutations in the RET gene may affect the normal development of intestinal ganglion cells and have a certain family genetic tendency.

2 Developmental abnormalities: During embryonic development, the ganglion cells responsible for intestinal motility fail to migrate to the distal part of the colon along the normal pathway, resulting in the loss of peristalsis in part of the colon.

3 Pathological characteristics: The affected colon area often continues to expand due to the inability to push feces, which can lead to thinning of the intestinal wall, local ischemia and even intestinal obstruction or infection over a long period of time.

2. Typical symptoms

Symptoms of Hirschsprung's disease may be present in the neonatal period:

1. Neonatal stool problems: Most children are unable to excrete meconium or have difficulty defecating after birth, which is a hallmark sign for early detection.

2. Intractable constipation in young children: As they grow older, they develop persistent constipation that is difficult to relieve, accompanied by symptoms such as abdominal distension, loss of appetite, or vomiting.

3Other complications: Some seriously ill children may experience intestinal obstruction, infection or malnutrition, and in emergency situations, immediate medical intervention is required.

3. Treatment and management

1. Surgery: It is the only effective radical treatment method at present, and its purpose is to remove the diseased part of the colon that lacks ganglion cells. For example, transanal extraction, laparoscopic surgery and laparotomy are the specific options depending on the condition.

2. Drugs and auxiliary treatments: Although drugs cannot cure the disease, laxatives or enemas can be used under the guidance of a doctor before surgery to solve short-term bowel problems and relieve symptoms.

3. Diet and care: During the postoperative recovery phase, a light and easily digestible diet should be chosen, such as vegetables and fruits rich in fiber, while irritating foods should be avoided to ensure smooth intestinal tract. Psychological care and proper exercise can also help improve the quality of life of children.

Hirschsprung's disease is a congenital disease, but with early diagnosis and scientific treatment, most children have a good prognosis. If parents find that their newborns have abnormal bowel movements, they should take their children to a regular medical institution for examination and treatment as soon as possible to avoid delaying the disease.