Background One-stage pull-through operation has become increasingly popular for treatment of Hirschsprung’s disease.
The one-stage transanal pull-through was introduced in the late 1990s and has rapidly replaced traditional procedures in
infants and young children in many surgical centers.
Objective The aim of this study is to determine feasibility and safety of transanal primary repair in adolescent and adults.
Methods Fifteen patients who underwent transanal endorectal pull-through were prospectively studied. All patients
presented by chronic refractory constipation with the age ranged from 11 to 22 years. The patients were followed up for a
mean of 18 months. Anal continence and postoperative complication were evaluated.
Results Incomplete continence in the form of soiling occurred in four patients (26.6%) and improved gradually with
conservative management. No patients suffered from complete incontinence. Anastomotic strictures occurred in two patients
and were successfully treated with regular dilatations. One patient had continued outlet obstruction and revision was
considered for him. One patient complicated with low perianal fistula which needed fistulectomy. There was no impotence
in adults.
Conclusion These findings indicate that one-stage transanal endorectal pull-through operation in adolescent and adults is
feasible and safe.