Hirschsprung's disease natural history, complications and prognosis

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Ahmed Younes M.B.B.CH [2]

If left untreated, Hirschsprung’s disease can lead to enterocolitis and even death. Common complications include enterocolitis, intestinal perforation, and short bowel syndrome. Using appropriate surgical interventions, mortality rate drops significantly.

If left untreated, Hirschsprung’s disease can lead to enterocolitis and even death.

• Inflammation and infection of the intestines/colon (enterocolitis)
• Intestinal perforation
• Short bowel syndrome (which can lead to malnourishment and dehydration)^[1]

• Wound infection
• Anastomosis leakage
• Intestinal obstruction
• Pelvic abscess
• Chronic bowel obstruction symptoms
• Chronic constipation or diarrhea^[1]

• Hirschsprung’s disease can lead to mortality in up to 80% of cases.
• Using appropriate surgical interventions, mortality would drops to 30%.