Hirschsprung disease and anorectal malformation.Early Hum Dev. 2014 Dec; 90(12):927-32.EH
Hirschsprung disease and Anorectal Malformations are congenital disorders presenting in neonates with distal intestinal obstruction. Hirschsprung disease is associated with a functional distal bowel obstruction resulting from the abnormal development of the enteric nervous system and ensuing aganglionosis of the distal gut. Anorectal Malformations comprise a spectrum of anatomical anomalies causing a mechanical bowel obstruction. Both conditions are frequently associated with congenital abnormalities/syndromes, which require careful assessment and evaluation. Surgical intervention is usually required for both conditions with careful preparation and meticulous technique. Long-term follow-up allows early identification and treatment of potentially debilitating symptoms, which include faecal incontinence.