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Hirschsprug's Disease
Experiencing chronic constipation or belly pain? Hirschsprung's disease, from missing nerve cells in the colon, can surface at any age. Dr. Nghia Nguyen at GastroDoxs in Houston provides expert diagnosis, tailored treatments, and minimally invasive surgeries to restore bowel function.
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Family history or genetic mutations
Failure of nerve cells to migrate into the colon during fetal development
Associated conditions such as Down syndrome or connective tissue disorders
Rare adult cases due to mild symptoms overlooked in childhood
Signs and Symptoms
Chronic or hard-to-treat constipation
Abdominal bloating and crampy pain
Intermittent diarrhea or vomiting episodes
Poor weight gain and failure to thrive in infants
Post-meal discomfort and fatigue in adults
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Hirschsprung's Disease?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your family history, bowel habits, and performs a thorough abdominal and rectal exam.
Imaging Studies
Contrast enema - highlights the transition zone between healthy and affected colon.
Abdominal X-ray - checks for bowel dilation or signs of obstruction.
Anorectal Manometry
Measures the recto-anal inhibitory reflex to assess nerve and muscle function in the rectum.
Rectal Biopsy
The gold-standard test: tissue sampling confirms the absence of nerve (ganglion) cells.
Treatment
Our Team offers comprehensive treatment options for Hirschsprung's disease.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Increase fiber intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Maintain adequate hydration—aim for at least 8 cups of water daily
Engage in regular light activity, such as walking, to stimulate bowel function
2. Medications
Stool softeners (e.g., docusate sodium) to ease stool passage
Osmotic laxatives (e.g., polyethylene glycol) for long‐term constipation management
Short‐term enemas for acute relief as prescribed
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Laparoscopic pull-through to remove the aganglionic colon segment via small incisions
Transanal pull-through to resect the affected area without external abdominal cuts
Robotic-assisted surgery for enhanced precision, reduced pain, and faster healing
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of Hirschsprung's disease in adults?
Adults often experience chronic constipation, bloating, and abdominal pain that don't improve with standard treatments.
Can Hirschsprung's disease be treated without surgery?
Mild cases may respond to dietary changes and medications, but surgery is usually the most effective long-term solution.
What's the ICD-10-CM code for Hirschsprung's disease?
The official code is K62.5 for Hirschsprung's disease.
How long is recovery after pull-through surgery?
Recovery typically takes 4-8 weeks, depending on whether the procedure was laparoscopic, transanal, or robotic.
Is laparoscopic surgery a good option?
Yes. Laparoscopic pull-through offers smaller scars, less pain, and faster healing compared to open surgery.
Will my child need surgery too?
Most children diagnosed with Hirschsprung's require surgery. Dr. Nguyen collaborates with pediatric specialists to ensure the best care.
Will my insurance cover tests and surgery?
Most major insurance plans cover diagnostic tests and surgical treatment. Our team can verify your benefits for you.
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