[Total colonic aganglionism (author's transl)]

Total colonic is the most frequent form of extensive aganglionism. Diagnosis is difficult, but it must be taken in mind whenever either muscoviscidosis or ileal atresia are considered. Nine cases out of a series of 319 aganglionisms seen between 1957 and 1977 are reported. Ileostomy can be lifesaving but Duhamel-Lester Martin technique must be elected as a definitive treatment. The modification proposed by the authors, carried out in three cases, can be performed as a first-choice operation in the newborn. The long term results in these three cases are compared to those of other techniques. A general review of the problem is made.