Hirschsprung Disease Specialists in Maharashtra
Hirschsprung disease is a congenital condition in which nerve cells that normally control the muscle contractions needed to move stool through the intestine are…
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hirschsprung disease hereditary?
It has a notable genetic component, and having an affected family member does raise the risk in future children, so genetic counselling may be offered to families with a history of the condition.
Can Hirschsprung disease be treated without surgery?
No, surgery to remove the affected segment of bowel is the only definitive treatment, since the missing nerve cells cannot be restored through medication alone.
Will my child have normal bowel function after surgery?
Most children achieve good, though not always perfectly normal, bowel function after the pull-through procedure, with some experiencing ongoing constipation or continence challenges that may need additional management.
What is enterocolitis and why is it a concern with Hirschsprung disease?
It's a serious intestinal infection that can occur before or even after surgery, causing fever, abdominal distension, and diarrhoea, and requires prompt medical attention since it can become life-threatening.
Is Hirschsprung disease more common in certain children?
Yes, it's more common in boys and in children with certain genetic conditions such as Down syndrome, though it can occur in any child.