The coexistence of colonic atresia and Hirschsprung's disease presents a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. Colonic atresia is quickly recognized, and the majority of patients are diverted shortly after birth. The diagnosis of coincident Hirschsprung's disease usually is made after anastomotic failure after restoration of intestinal continuity. A recent compilation of these patients has suggested that Hirschsprung's disease may be predicted on the basis of nonfixation of the colon distal to the atresia.
The coexistence of colonic atresia and Hirschsprung's disease presents a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. Colonic atresia is quickly recognized, and the majority of patients are diverted shortly after birth. The diagnosis of coincident Hirschsprung's disease usually is made after anastomotic failure after restoration of intestinal continuity. A recent compilation of these patients has suggested that Hirschsprung's disease may be predicted on the basis of nonfixation of the colon distal to the atresia.