Comprehensive Analysis of the Clinical Outcomes, Lifestyle Impacts, and Family Satisfaction in Hirschsprung's Disease: A Retrospective Cohort Study from a Single Pediatric Surgery Unit

Abstract

Background: Hirschsprung's disease (HD) is a congenital condition causing functional bowel obstruction. Despite surgical advancements, long-term impacts on patients' quality of life, family dynamics, and satisfaction remain underexplored. This study evaluates the clinical outcomes, lifestyle impacts, and family satisfaction in HD management. Methods: A retrospective cohort study analyzed 127 HD cases managed in a single pediatric surgery unit (2004–2020). Data from medical records, surveys, and structured interviews assessed surgical outcomes, postoperative bowel function, school attendance, dietary adjustments, social anxiety, and family satisfaction. The quantitative analysis utilized SPSS v25.0, with p-values <0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: Patients had a mean age at surgery of 10.6 months; 72.4% were male. Surgical interventions included one-stage pull-through (51.2%) and staged procedures (48.8%). Complications like persistent constipation (26.8%), enterocolitis (15.0%), and redo surgeries (6.3%) were common. Functional outcomes showed that 81.1% achieved good bowel function, while 14.2% required occasional medication. Rural patients faced higher absenteeism (45% vs. 30%) and restrictive dietary changes (50% vs. 35%). Family satisfaction was high (73.2%), with concerns about long-term bowel management (65%), psychosocial impact (38%), and financial burdens (21%). Conclusions: This study highlights the multifaceted challenges of HD management, including disparities in rural vs. urban care, persistent complications, and psychosocial impacts. Recommendations include multidisciplinary care, genetic counseling, family-centered support, and public health interventions tailored to regional needs. These findings advocate for enhanced strategies to improve surgical outcomes, address long-term care challenges, and elevate family satisfaction.