Hirschsprung's disease: management problem in a developing country

E Bandré1, R A F Kaboré, I Ouedraogo

  • 1Department of Surgery University, Child Hospital Charles De Gaulle of Ouagadougou (CHUP-CDG), .

Insights

Hirschsprung's disease management is challenging in Burkina Faso, marked by late diagnosis and high mortality. Improving care requires better training, resources, and public awareness for pediatric surgery outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Gastroenterology
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Hirschsprung's disease management presents significant challenges in developing nations.
  • This study focuses on the epidemiological, clinical, and therapeutic aspects of Hirschsprung's disease at a major pediatric hospital in Burkina Faso.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify the key epidemiological, clinical, and therapeutic characteristics of Hirschsprung's disease.
  • To understand the challenges in managing Hirschsprung's disease in a resource-limited setting.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective study conducted from January 2001 to December 2007.
  • Data collected from the Surgery Unit at the University Child Hospital Charles De Gaulle of Ouagadougou (CHUP-CDG), a pediatric surgery reference center.
  • Analysis of patient demographics, clinical presentation, treatment, and outcomes.

Main Results:

  • Fifty-two patients diagnosed with Hirschsprung's disease, with a male-to-female ratio of 3.3:1.
  • Late presentation common, with a median age of 20 months at diagnosis; rectosigmoidal form most frequent.
  • High morbidity (12% post-surgery enterocolitis) and mortality (16%) rates observed, linked to late diagnosis and limited diagnostic services.

Conclusions:

  • Hirschsprung's disease management in Burkina Faso is hampered by late diagnosis and limited access to essential investigations.
  • Improving pediatric surgical care necessitates enhanced technical capacity, staff training, and public health education.
  • Addressing socioeconomic factors is crucial for better patient outcomes in Hirschsprung's disease management.
Abstract

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