THE MANAGEMENT OF HIRSCHSPRUNG'S DISEASE IN THE NEONATE

SYNOPSIS Most cases of Hirschsprung's disease can be detected in the newborn period at which time the mortality is highest. Our experience with 24 consecutive cases in the newborn is discussed and in the management of aganglionosis in this age group the approach to diagnosis and treatment should be one of urgency; laparotomy should be done with frozen sections available and, if possible, with the bowel previously deflated; a Sieber-Kiesewetter operation is recommended and the colon distal to the colostomy should be cleared of faeces before the patient is discharged from hospital.