Hirschsprung disease associated enterocolitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Gastroenterology
• Clinical Research

Background:

• Hirschsprung's disease-associated enterocolitis (HAEC) poses significant morbidity and mortality risks.
• The pathophysiology of HAEC remains poorly understood, lacking effective treatment strategies.
• Current research aims to analyze pre- and post-operative outcomes, mortality, and complications associated with HAEC.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze mortality and complications associated with HAEC.
• To investigate pre- and post-operative factors influencing HAEC.
• To identify persistent challenges in managing HAEC.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review adhering to PRISMA 2020 guidelines.
• Literature search conducted on PubMed and SagePub databases (2013-2023).
• Meta-analysis performed using STATA 18.

Main Results:

• Initial search yielded 370 PubMed and 149 SagePub articles.
• Seven studies met the inclusion criteria after filtering.
• Analysis focused on pre- and post-operative data from selected studies.

Conclusions:

• Preoperative HAEC is linked to intestinal motility disorders, fecal stasis, and disrupted microbiota.
• Major congenital anomalies and low birth weight exacerbate preoperative HAEC.
• Constipation and fecal incontinence remain primary post-operative challenges after HSCR surgery.