NICU
Neonates, Infant, Newborn, Baby, Preemie
Hirschsprung's Disease
What is Hirschsprung's Disease?
Hirschsprung's disease is where ganglion cells, which are nerve cells, are not present in sections of the intestines that help with the continuous movement of stomach contents. With the absence of these nerve cells, the stomach content's can back up, causing a blockage. This is extremely dangerous as it can ultimately lead to a bowel perforation ( a hole in the bowel causing stool to enter the inner body), as well as a possible bacterial infection.
Treatment
Surgery is an absolute must for infants with Hirschsrpung's disease. The affected area with the absence of nerve cells is removed. The remaining healthy sections of intestines are then reconnected.
In some cases, with critically ill or sick infants, a colostomy is needed to allow the baby to recover, at hich surgery will be performed at a later date.
If there is an early diagnosis, and health of the infant is good, then a very minor invasive surgical
procedure can be performed, called a laparoscopy. This reduces scarring and allows for normal bowel movements after the procedure is complete.
See Also:
• Children's Cincinnati - Hirschsprung's Disease
• Mayo Clinic - Hirschsprung's Disease