Laparoscopic Modified Duhamel Procedure

Abstract

Our laparoscopic modified Duhamel procedure with a Z-shaped anastomosis is presented along with some technical points. Between 2001 and 2016, a total of 51 children with Hirschsprung’s disease (HD) underwent a laparoscopic modified Duhamel procedure. The frequency of defecation decreased gradually after surgery, and more than half of the patients experienced episodes of constipation during the early follow-up period. However, the need for medication to treat constipation decreased as the children grew older. All patients over 4 years of age, excluding patients with trisomy 21, achieved normal defecation. No patients, other than those with trisomy 21, experienced fecal and/or urinary incontinence. The laparoscopic modified Duhamel procedure provided satisfactory long-term results.