Long-term results of Swenson's operation for Hirschsprung's disease

84 of 89 cases were traced 18 to 27 years after Swenson's operation. Seven had long segments. All were alive and in good general health except one who had renal transplant for hypertension due to pyelonephritis in a residual solitary kidney. 61 are married of whom 34 have children. None of the children have Hirshsprung's disease. 48 were fully normal within one year of operation. 29 had constipation enough to require treatment. Seven had diarrhoea which in three required hospitalisation for electrolyte disturbances and dehydration. 39 had some degree of soiling, but in only nine was this troublesome. Recovery of normal bowel control was more rapid in those with a good social background. Eight had postoperative strictures, but treatment has remained successful in the long-term in seven of these. Five patients had inadequate resections and are well after further surgery. Nine had urinary incontinence of which seven had only nocturnal enuresis. All are fully recovered. Two male patients have absence of ejaculation and two females are infertile with scarred Fallopian tubes. 83 of the 84 now have normal bowel control and good health. One has a permanent ileostomy.