Analysis of problems, complications, avoidance and management with transanal pull-through for Hirschsprung disease

Abstract Background The primary aim of this study is to detail the problems, complications, their avoidance, and management with transanal pull-through developed from experience with 65 patients. Methods A retrospective study of 65 patients who underwent transanal pull-through between January 2002 and December 2006 was conducted. Their medical charts and operative notes were reviewed for problems encountered during surgery, postoperative period, and follow-up. Results In 46 patients, a primary transanal pull-through was performed, whereas in 19 with a prior colostomy, followed staged pull-through was done. The minimum follow-up was 6 months, with an average of 22 months after surgery (range, 6-47 months). Sixteen patients (25%) experienced at least 1 complication. These included inadvertent full-thickness mobilization of the rectum in 3 (4.6%), retraction and bleeding of colonic mesenteric vessels in 2 (3.7%), difficulty in mobilizing intraperitoneal colon in 1 (1.5%), and a false-positive frozen section in 2 patients (3%). Early postoperative complications occurred in 7 patients (11%), which included sphincter spasm in 3 (4.6%), anastomotic leak in 1 (1.5%), cuff abscess in 2 (3%), and enterocolitis in 1 (1.5%). Late postoperative complications in 46 patients (70%), occurring from 1 week till 3 months of follow-up included perianal excoriation in 22 (34%), increased stool frequency in 20 (31%), anal stenosis in 3 (4.6%), and enterocolitis in 2 patients (3%). Methodology is detailed for avoidance and management of problems and complications. Individual patient analysis, complications timing, and strategy for management are discussed. Conclusion Patient outcomes for transanal pull-through have improved significantly as a result of combination of experience and the ability to avoid and manage associated complications. Experience, avoidance, and interdiction are key factors in complication management.