New case-based textbook explores complex pediatric colorectal care 

A new textbook, Pediatric Colorectal Conundrums, Case Studies: From Fundamental to Advanced, authored by Dr. Hussein Wissanji, Director of the Colorectal Centre of Excellence at the Montreal Children’s Hospital, is now available. The publication brings together global expertise to guide clinicians through the full spectrum of pediatric colorectal and pelvic reconstructive conditions. He is joined by co-authors Marc Levitt, MD, chief of the Division of Colorectal and Pelvic Reconstruction at Children’s National Hospital, and Thomas Xu, a fellow in colorectal surgery at Children’s National. 

What is it? 

Through a case-based format, the book reflects the real-world experiences of contributors from around the world and emphasizes practical decision-making, functional outcomes and long-term quality of life for patients. Illustrated and complemented by online resources, the text serves as both a foundational reference and an advanced clinical guide. 

The cases originated from a weekly quiz that Dr. Levitt distributed to colleagues around the world during the pandemic. Each Monday, a new case would arrive via email, inviting surgeons to submit their diagnoses and management plans, with the correct answer shared the following week. 

At a time when COVID-19 halted in-person meetings and disrupted traditional academic forums, this initiative helped sustain meaningful exchange and professional connection. It was from this highly engaged, global series that the concept for the book ultimately emerged. 

The first section provides guidance on the evaluation and management of core conditions, including: 

• Male and female anorectal malformations 

• Cloaca 

• Hirschsprung disease 

• Functional constipation 

The second section moves into challenging and nuanced scenarios, offering alternative strategies for complex presentations and complications. Topics include: 

• Advanced anorectal malformation cases and surgical approaches 

• Cloaca case variations 

• Complications of Malone appendicostomy 

• Difficult Hirschsprung disease cases 

• Colonic motility disorders 

• Miscellaneous colorectal diseases such as atresias, duplications, prolapse, volvulus and urogenital sinus conditions 

Why it matters 

Children with anorectal malformations, cloaca, Hirschsprung disease, fecal incontinence and colonic motility disorders often require coordinated, lifelong care from multidisciplinary teams. This textbook underscores the collaborative nature of pediatric colorectal and pelvic reconstruction, highlighting the roles of colorectal surgery, urology, gynecology, gastroenterology motility, orthopedics, neurosurgery, physiotherapy, anesthesia, pathology, radiology, psychology, social work, nutrition and nursing. 

By pairing foundational instruction with advanced case discussions, the book aims to standardize and elevate care worldwide, helping clinicians approach both common and rare scenarios with greater confidence and clarity. 

A leader in pediatric colorectal surgery 

Dr. Wissanji is a pediatric colorectal surgeon and founder of the Colorectal Centre of Excellence (COCOE) at the Montreal Children’s Hospital. Knowing that in the United States, specialized centres had developed an innovative approach combining cutting-edge reconstructive surgery performed by a multidisciplinary team with a comprehensive intestinal rehabilitation program, and that Quebec had no equivalent, he decided to create COCOE. Its clinical mission is based on two essential pillars: a rigorous research program focused on the experience of families and the dissemination of medical knowledge to healthcare professionals and families.  

Through this textbook, Dr. Wissanji continues his longstanding commitment to education and global knowledge sharing, equipping surgeons and multidisciplinary care teams with practical tools and real-world insights to improve outcomes for children everywhere.