Operative Strategies for Hirschsprung Disease Presenting in Adults: A Systematic Review

In brief

This systematic review examines surgical approaches for Hirschsprung disease diagnosed or treated in adulthood, a rare presentation of a typically pediatric condition. The analysis identifies key factors guiding operative decision-making in both elective and emergency scenarios for adult patients.

• Adult Hirschsprung disease requires tailored surgical approaches distinct from pediatric protocols due to anatomical and physiological differences.
• Emergency presentations in adults often necessitate staged procedures with initial diversion followed by definitive pull-through.
• Elective surgical decision-making depends on extent of aganglionosis, bowel dilation severity, and patient comorbidities.
• Systematic review identifies gaps in standardized operative protocols for adult Hirschsprung disease management.
• Preoperative mapping of transition zone length influences choice between transanal, laparoscopic, or open pull-through techniques.

Written by the GCMD Library team from the article.