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Hirschsprug's Disease

At GastroDoxs in Jersey Village, our specialized pediatric gastroenterology team offers comprehensive Hirschsprung's Disease diagnosis, treatment, and family support, ensuring personalized care and trusted community-centered expertise for infants and children affected by this congenital condition right here in our hometown.

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Bharat Pothuri
Symptoms

What is Hirschsprug's Disease?

Hirschsprug's Disease is a congenital condition in which nerve cells (ganglia) are missing from segments of the colon. Without these nerves, the bowel can't coordinate muscle contractions to move stool along, leading to blockage and severe constipation. It typically presents in newborns but milder cases may not be diagnosed until later in childhood or adulthood. (ICD-10 code: Q43.1)

Common Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending on age and the length of bowel involved. Common signs include:

  • No meconium passage within the first 48 hours after birth
  • Abdominal distension and bloating
  • Repeated vomiting and poor feeding in infants
  • Chronic constipation in older children and adults
  • Abdominal pain or cramping
  • Episodes of diarrhea alternating with severe constipation

Causes

Hirschsprug's Disease is primarily driven by genetic factors. Known contributors include:

  • Mutations in the RET gene or other genes involved in neural crest cell development
  • A family history of similar bowel motility disorders
  • Association with certain syndromes (e.g., Down syndrome) in a minority of cases
Treatment

Treatment Options for Hirschsprug's Disease in Jersey Village

Treatment includes surgical and non-surgical approaches:

  • Surgical segmental resection: Removal of the aganglionic (nerve-lacking) portion of the colon to restore normal bowel motility.
  • Pull-through procedures: Techniques such as Swenson, Soave or Duhamel operations to connect the healthy colon directly to the anus.
  • Bowel management programs: Diet modifications, scheduled toileting, and laxatives or stool softeners to manage symptoms when surgery is delayed or as adjunctive care.
  • Preoperative evaluation: Contrast enemas, rectal biopsies, and anorectal manometry to confirm diagnosis and plan the optimal surgical approach.
  • Follow-up care: Regular monitoring of bowel function, nutritional support, and management of possible complications (e.g., enterocolitis or strictures).

Why Choose GastroDoxs?

At GastroDoxs in Jersey Village, we specialize in diagnosing and treating Hirschsprung's Disease for patients of all ages. Our multidisciplinary team offers precise ICD-10 coding (Q43.1), advanced pull-through surgeries and tailored bowel management programs. We combine cutting-edge techniques with compassionate, patient-centered care to ensure the best possible outcomes. Don't wait-take the first step toward relief today.

Book an Appointment Now: Call us at 832-632-4070 or visit our website to schedule your consultation with a Hirschsprung's Disease specialist in Jersey Village.

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Patients Treated

We've successfully treated more than 1K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.

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Years of Experience

With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients

Bharat Pothuri

About the Author

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ICD-10 code for Hirschsprug's Disease?

The ICD-10 code for Hirschsprug's Disease is Q43.1, used for accurate billing and medical records.

Can Hirschsprug's Disease appear in adults?

Yes. While it's often diagnosed at birth, milder forms may present in teens or adults, usually manifesting as chronic constipation.

What causes Hirschsprug's Disease?

Hirschsprug's Disease is primarily genetic, often linked to mutations in the RET gene and a family history of bowel issues. Rarely, it's associated with syndromes like Down syndrome.

How is Hirschsprug's Disease diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a contrast enema to visualize the colon, a rectal biopsy to check for nerve cells, and anorectal manometry to assess muscle function.

What are the main symptoms in newborns?

In newborns, key signs include failure to pass meconium within 48 hours, abdominal distension, vomiting, and feeding difficulties.

What treatment options exist?

Treatment focuses on restoring bowel function. Surgical options include pull-through procedures (Swenson, Soave, Duhamel) to remove the affected segment. Non-surgical bowel management with diet modifications and laxatives may also be used.

When should I see a gastroenterologist in Jersey Village?

Consult a specialist if your newborn hasn't passed stool in two days, or if you or your child experience chronic constipation, abdominal pain, or bloating.

Is surgery always required?

Most patients require pull-through surgery to remove the nerve-lacking colon. The specific timing and surgical approach depend on disease severity and individual factors.

How long is recovery after surgery?

Hospital stays usually last 5-7 days. Full return of bowel function can take weeks to months, and follow-up care ensures optimal recovery.

How do I find a Hirschsprug's Disease specialist near Jersey Village?

Call GastroDoxs to schedule an appointment or search online for "Hirschsprug's Disease specialist near Jersey Village" to connect with our experts.

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