Abstract
The clinical features and treatment of 15 children with short-segment Hirscbsprung's disease were reviewed. It accounted for 25% of all Hirschsprung's cases seen 1975–84. The symptomatology, which was generally mild, consisted of slowly progressive abdominal distension with one of three defaecating patterns: persistent or intermittent diarrhoea; 2–3 normal daily motions; and constipated stool passed infrequently. Diagnosis was based mainly on the clinical features and barium enema findings. Eight patients had formal sphincterectomy and 3 had rectal muscle biopsy; follow up to 2½ years in some of the patients with sphincterectomy showed satisfactory results. Factors that would expedite clinical diagnosis are discussed.
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