After nearly two years of suffering from severe constipation, weight loss, and a dangerously swollen abdomen, a two-year-old child from Sangamner has finally found relief through a breakthrough endoscopic surgery in Mumbai.
The child, who had stopped passing stools within the first few months after birth, was initially treated by a local doctor. However, his condition kept worsening. “Despite regular enemas and medication, we saw no improvement,” said Nitin, the child’s father.
The parents were advised to travel to Mumbai. They consulted paediatric gastroenterologist Dr Vibhor Borkar. Following a detailed evaluation, including manometry and biopsy, the child was diagnosed with Hirschsprung’s disease — a congenital condition in which essential nerve cells that control bowel movement are absent in sections of the large intestine. The condition affects approximately one in every 5,000 to 10,000 children and is often misdiagnosed due to its rarity and similarity to common digestive issues. If left untreated, it can become life-threatening due to infections.
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Instead of resorting to traditional open surgery, which involves removing and reattaching sections of the intestine, doctors chose a less invasive option — a per-rectal endoscopic myotomy (PREM). This advanced technique offers quicker recovery, minimal scarring, and reduced risk of complications.
“The child is now symptom-free, eating well, and passing stools naturally, without the need for enemas. Early intervention was crucial to avoid complications such as enterocolitis, infection, and failure to thrive,” said doctor.
The procedure was successfully carried out at Gleneagles Hospital in Parel, bringing immense relief to the child and his family. “The cost was over Rs 4 lakh, but seeing our son Aryan finally recover was worth every penny,” said Nitin.
