1
|
Bokova E, Svetanoff WJ, Lopez JJ, Levitt MA, Rentea RM. State of the Art Bowel Management for Pediatric Colorectal Problems: Anorectal Malformations. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 10:children10050846. [PMID: 37238394 DOI: 10.3390/children10050846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Up to 79% of patients with anorectal malformations (ARMs) experience constipation and/or soiling after a primary posterior sagittal anoplasty (PSARP) and are referred to a bowel management program. We aim to report the recent updates in evaluating and managing these patients as part of the manuscript series on the current bowel management protocols for patients with colorectal diseases (ARMs, Hirschsprung disease, functional constipation, and spinal anomalies). The unique anatomic features of ARM patients, such as maldeveloped sphincter complex, impaired anal sensation, and associated spine and sacrum anomalies, indicate their bowel management plan. The evaluation includes an examination under anesthesia and a contrast study to exclude anatomic causes of poor bowel function. The potential for bowel control is discussed with the families based on the ARM index calculated from the quality of the spine and sacrum. The bowel management options include laxatives, rectal enemas, transanal irrigations, and antegrade continence enemas. In ARM patients, stool softeners should be avoided as they can worsen soiling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elizaveta Bokova
- Comprehensive Colorectal Center, Department of Surgery, Children's Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
| | - Wendy Jo Svetanoff
- Comprehensive Colorectal Center, Department of Surgery, Children's Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
| | - Joseph J Lopez
- Comprehensive Colorectal Center, Department of Surgery, Children's Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
| | - Marc A Levitt
- Division of Colorectal and Pelvic Reconstruction, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC 20001, USA
| | - Rebecca M Rentea
- Comprehensive Colorectal Center, Department of Surgery, Children's Mercy Hospital, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
- Department of Surgery, University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Ahmad H, Skeritt C, Halleran DR, Rentea RM, Reck-Burneo CA, Vilanova-Sanchez A, Weaver L, Langer JC, Diefenbach KA, Gasior AC, Levitt MA, Wood RJ. Are routine postoperative dilations necessary after primary posterior sagittal anorectoplasty? A randomized controlled trial. J Pediatr Surg 2021; 56:1449-1453. [PMID: 34049690 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2021.04.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
AIM OF THE STUDY For the past four decades, routine daily postoperative anal dilation by parents has been the standard treatment following a primary posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP). However, the clinical benefit of this practice has never been formally investigated. It is known that dilations can have a significant negative psychological impact on patients and families, and therefore, we aimed to study if routine dilations after a PSARP are necessary. METHODS A prospective, single institution randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted on patients with anorectal malformations (ARM) at our institution between 2017 and 2019. Patients were randomized to either a dilation or non-dilation group following their PSARP. Inclusion criteria included age less than 24 months and all patients undergoing primary repair of their ARM (except for cloaca). Patient characteristics, type of ARM, presence of colostomy, postoperative stricture, need for a skin level revision (Heineke-Mikulicz anoplasty (HMA)), and need for redo PSARP were recorded. The primary outcome of the trial was stricture formation. The secondary outcome included strictures requiring interventions. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Institutional approval was obtained for this study and informed consents were obtained from all the patients. RESULTS 49 patients were included in our study. 5 (21%) in the dilation group and 8 (32%) in the non-dilation group developed strictures (p=0.21). Of these, 3 (13%) patients in the dilation group required HMA, and 4 (16%) patients in the non-dilation group required HMA (p=0.72). 4 patients required a redo operation for strictures: 2 in the dilation arm (these patients despite the plan to do dilations, chose not to do them consistently) and 2 in the non-dilation arm (p=0.59). CONCLUSION Routine dilations after PSARP do not significantly reduce stricture formation. Based on these results, non-dilation is a viable alternative, and HM anoplasty remains a good back-up plan if a stricture develops. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level I.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hira Ahmad
- Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive, Columbus, OH, USA.
| | - Clare Skeritt
- Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Devin R Halleran
- Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Rebecca M Rentea
- Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive, Columbus, OH, USA
| | | | | | - Laura Weaver
- Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Jacob C Langer
- Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive, Columbus, OH, USA
| | | | | | - Marc A Levitt
- Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Richard J Wood
- Nationwide Children's Hospital, 700 Children's Drive, Columbus, OH, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Tirrell TF, McNamara ER, Dickie BH. Reoperative surgery in anorectal malformation patients. Transl Gastroenterol Hepatol 2021; 6:43. [PMID: 34423164 PMCID: PMC8343547 DOI: 10.21037/tgh-20-214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Currently accepted primary repair of congenital anorectal malformations (ARMs) includes a posterior sagittal incision, which allows for optimal visualization and identification of important pelvic structures and anatomical features. Reconstructive surgery involves meticulous dissection and separation of pelvic structures, and careful reconstruction can result in good functional outcomes for many patients, who live without ongoing sequelae from their malformation. However, some patients may require reoperative procedures for anatomic or functional reasons. Males and females present with slightly different symptoms and should be approached differently. Males are most likely to require reoperations for anorectal or urethral pathologies, but the urinary system is often spared in females-they instead must contend with Mullerian duct anomalies, of which there are many varieties. Depending on the original malformation and severity of symptoms, redo surgery may be needed to optimize function and quality of life. Surgical management with reoperative surgery in ARMs ranges from straightforward to complex, depending on the issue. One must weigh the risks of reoperative surgery and potentially creating more scarring against the need for a better anatomical and functional outcome. Current management trends and practice patterns with regards to reoperative surgery in ARM patients are not widely studied or standardized but we provide an overview of the more common pathologies, preoperative evaluation and workup required to identify the issues, and options for reoperative repair in these patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Erin R McNamara
- Department of Urology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Belinda H Dickie
- Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Krois W, Rentea RM, Hernandez PX, Craniotis-Rios J, Wood RJ, Levitt MA, Reck-Burneo CA. Quality outcomes for pediatric colorectal surgery treated during short-term international medical service trips at a dedicated site in Honduras. J Pediatr Surg 2021; 56:805-810. [PMID: 32711941 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2020.06.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2020] [Revised: 06/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Short-term international medical service trips (MSTs) provide specialized care in resource-constrained countries. There are limited data on immediate and long-term reported outcomes following specialty MST. We hypothesized that dedicated collaborative MST team and host institution produce outcomes and results comparable to those of high-income settings. Our primary aim was to analyze the long-term surgical and functional outcomes of our specialty-specific MSTs following five years of annual MST in Honduras. METHODS We performed a single-institution retrospective analysis of 56 children who underwent colorectal and pelvic reconstructive operations between 2014 and 2018. Demographics, diagnosis, comorbidities, type of repair, long-term complications, and functional bowel and bladder results were recorded. RESULTS We included a total of 56 children, 47 with ARM and 9 with HD, with a median age of 43.5 months (17-355) at the time of surgery. 25% (22) of the patients were lost to follow-up. Fecal continence was achieved by 23 (60%) patients <5 years who reported toilet training (n = 39) and by 5 (45%) patients >5 years (n = 11). Complications included constipation in 18 (42.9%) children with ARM and in 1 (12.5%) with HD. Eleven (19.6%) patients required revisional surgery for skin level anal stricture. Seventy-five percent of the patients with pediatric colorectal disorders attending the MST were compliant with continued long-term follow-up. CONCLUSION We were able to demonstrate that with organized, dedicated site and surgeon, results achieved can be comparable to those in the high-income countries (HICs). We conclude that this type of specialized care is feasible and beneficial for affected pediatric colorectal patients in resource-limited settings, when a strong partnership with a system of preoperative assessments and peri- and postoperative care can be established. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level IV (retrospective cohort study).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wilfried Krois
- Medical University of Vienna, Department of Surgery, Clinical Department of Pediatric Surgery, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Rebecca M Rentea
- Comprehensive Colorectal Center, Department of Surgery, Children's Mercy-Kansas City, Kansas City, MO 64108, USA
| | | | | | | | - Marc A Levitt
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Children's National Hospital, Washington, D.C., USA
| | - Carlos A Reck-Burneo
- Medical University of Vienna, Department of Surgery, Clinical Department of Pediatric Surgery, Vienna, Austria
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Lane VA, Calisto J, deBlaauw I, Calkins CM, Samuk I, Avansino JR. Assessing the previously repaired patient with an anorectal malformation who is not doing well. Semin Pediatr Surg 2020; 29:150995. [PMID: 33288142 DOI: 10.1016/j.sempedsurg.2020.150995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
In this review, the care of children with a previously repaired anorectal malformation is explored. We know that the surgical care of children with anorectal malformations is complex; however, despite an increased understanding of the congenital anomaly and significant technical advances in the operative repair, many of these children continue to have poor functional outcomes. In this article we focus on the common surgical complications, discuss typical presentations, consider appropriate investigations, and review the risks and benefits of revisional surgery in those patients that are 'not doing well' following their primary reconstruction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Victoria A Lane
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, Great North Children's Hospital, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, UK.
| | - Juan Calisto
- Colorectal Center, Nicklaus Children's Hospital, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Ivo deBlaauw
- Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Casey M Calkins
- The Medical College of Wisconsin, Children's Hospital of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Inbal Samuk
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Schneider Children's Medical Center of Israel, Petach Tikva, affiliated with Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Jeffrey R Avansino
- Reconstructive Pelvic Medicine Program, Seattle Children's Hospital, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Surgery, University of Washington, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Brisighelli G, Etwire V, Lawal T, Arnold M, Westgarth-Taylor C. Treating pediatric colorectal patients in low and middle income settings: Creative adaptation to the resources available. Semin Pediatr Surg 2020; 29:150989. [PMID: 33288130 DOI: 10.1016/j.sempedsurg.2020.150989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Colorectal disease profiles for children in low- and middle-income settings (LMIC) are characterized by late presentation, increased complications and limited follow-up in many cases. There is a high prevalence of infectious conditions causing secondary colorectal disease such as Mycobacterium Tuberculosis(TB), Human Immunodeficiency Virus(HIV) and Human Papilloma Virus(HPV), which also impact the management of other primary colorectal conditions, such as wound-healing and intestinal anastomosis. Perineal trauma from sexual assault, motor vehicle or pedestrian accidents, burns, and traditional enemas are commonly encountered and may require adaptation of principles used in treatment of congenital anomalies such as Hirschsprung's disease and Anorectal Malformations for reconstruction. Endemic conditions in certain LMIC require further research to delineate underlying causes and optimize management, such as "African" degenerative visceral leiomyopathy, congenital pouch colon in the Indian subcontinent, and congenital H-type rectal fistulae prevalent in Asia. These unique disease profiles require creative adaptations of resources within poor healthcare infrastructure settings. These special challenges and pitfalls in colorectal care and complications of adverse socioeconomic conditions, are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Brisighelli
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Pediatric Colorectal and Pelvic Reconstruction Centre, Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, University of the Witwatersrand, 7 York Road, Parktown, 2193 Johannesburg, South Africa.
| | - Victor Etwire
- Department of Surgery, Pediatric Surgery Unit, Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, Accra, Ghana
| | - Taiwo Lawal
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, University College Hospital and Department of Surgery, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Marion Arnold
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Chris Westgarth-Taylor
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Pediatric Colorectal and Pelvic Reconstruction Centre, Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, University of the Witwatersrand, 7 York Road, Parktown, 2193 Johannesburg, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Jumbi T, Kuria K, Osawa F, Shahbal S. The effectiveness of digital anal dilatation in preventing anal strictures after anorectal malformation repair. J Pediatr Surg 2019; 54:2178-2181. [PMID: 31053362 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2019.04.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2018] [Revised: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anal dilatation is performed after repair of anorectal malformations(ARMs) and is vital in prevention of anal stricture formation. The ideal protocol utilizes Hegar dilators. In our setup, few parents will acquire Hegar dilators for home based anal dilatation but majority will use fingers as an alternative. The basis of this study was to determine the effectiveness of digital anal dilatations in preventing anal strictures. MATERIALS AND METHODS This was a descriptive cross-sectional study carried out at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) which recruited children post ARM repair undergoing digital anal dilatation. The diameters of the digits used for anal dilatation were assessed for adequacy using the desired anal size as a reference point. The main outcome variable was the presence of anal strictures. Data were entered in a data collection sheet and analyzed by use of SPSS (V.21.0 Chicago, Illinois). Chi-square test and Fisher's exact test were used to ascertain association among variables. A P-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS 50 patients with ARM post repair were recruited in the study. The rate of occurrence of anal stricture was 22%. Among the participants with anal strictures, only 27% were compliant to the dilatation regimen while 73% reported noncompliance. The mean diameter(mm) of the dilating digits at the level of the middle phalanx was Index finger (15.4 ± 0.58), middle finger (15.2 ± 0.61), ring finger (14.2 ± 0.71), small finger (12.5 ± 0.91) and thumb (17.6 ± 0.78). 46% of the participants were dilated with appropriately sized digits. The remainder had dilatations done with larger (22%) or smaller digits (32%). Notably, anal strictures occurred in participants who were dilated with inappropriately sized digits (P = 0.001). CONCLUSION Digital anal dilatation is safe and effective as a mode of anal dilation in the setting of compliance to a strict dilatation protocol, daily frequency of dilations and use of appropriately sized digits. Owing to the variability in the finger size, we recommend that digits be calibrated and education given to the caregivers on the use of the appropriately sized digit. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Treatment study. Level III.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Timothy Jumbi
- Department of Surgery, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya.
| | - Kihiko Kuria
- Department of Surgery, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya.
| | - Francis Osawa
- Department of Surgery, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya.
| | - Swaleh Shahbal
- Department of Surgery, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Ralls MW, Fallon BP, Ladino-Torres M, Ehrlich PF, Jarboe MD. Salvage Laparoscopic-Assisted Anorectoplasty after Failed Vestibular Fistula Repair Using Magnetic Resonance Image Guidance. European J Pediatr Surg Rep 2019; 7:e12-e15. [PMID: 31131185 PMCID: PMC6533101 DOI: 10.1055/s-0039-1688486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2019] [Accepted: 03/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Patients with vestibular fistula have a good functional outcome after posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP). While continence is often preserved, close follow-up and management of constipation are often required. Redo anorectal surgery has been associated with worse functional outcomes compared with primary procedures, possibly due to injury and scarring of the pelvic floor musculature and sphincter complex. Our group has a growing experience in the use of intraoperative real-time magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for anorectal malformation repairs. We present a case of salvage operation of a failed PSARP for vestibular fistula.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matthew W Ralls
- Section of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, C.S. Mott Children's Hospital, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
| | - Brian P Fallon
- Section of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, C.S. Mott Children's Hospital, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
| | - Maria Ladino-Torres
- Section of Pediatric Radiology, Department of Radiology, University of Michigan Medical School and C.S. Mott Children's Hospital, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
| | - Peter F Ehrlich
- Section of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, C.S. Mott Children's Hospital, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
| | - Marcus D Jarboe
- Section of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, C.S. Mott Children's Hospital, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States.,Division of Interventional Radiology, Department of Radiology, C.S. Mott Children's Hospital, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Abstract
Anorectal malformation is one of the most common structural congenital malformations treated by pediatric surgeons globally. The outcome of care is largely dependent on the spectrum, clinical features, associated malformations, expertise of the surgeons, and available perioperative facilities. Africa has a large burden of unmet surgical needs in children, and as in other low resource settings, local pediatric surgeons are faced with different and challenging clinical scenarios, hence, adopt various measures to enable children with surgically correctable congenital malformations to survive. There are increasing collaborations between local surgeons and experts in other continents, which often involves surgeons traveling to Africa on missions or well-structured partnerships. It is highly beneficial for the physician who is interested in global-surgery to understand the terrain in low resource settings and prepare for possible changes in management plan. This review highlights the epidemiology, clinical presentation, treatment, and outcome of care of children with anorectal malformations in Africa and provides options adopted by pediatric surgeons working with limited resources.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Taiwo A Lawal
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Ibadan and University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Halleran DR, Sanchez AV, Rentea RM, Ahmad H, Weaver L, Reck C, Gasior AC, Levitt MA, Wood RJ. Assessment of the Heineke-Mikulicz anoplasty for skin level postoperative anal strictures and congenital anal stenosis. J Pediatr Surg 2019; 54:118-122. [PMID: 30366721 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2018.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2018] [Accepted: 10/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Acquired skin-level strictures following posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP) and some rare cases of congenital anal stenosis can be managed using a Heineke-Mikulicz like anoplasty (HMA). We hypothesized that this procedure was an effective, safe, and durable outpatient procedure in select patients. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed all patients who underwent HMA for skin level strictures following PSARP or for certain congenital anal stenoses from 2014 to 2017. RESULTS Twenty-eight patients (19 males, 9 females) with a mean age of 5.8 years (range 0.5-24.4) underwent HMA. Twenty-six had a prior PSARP, of which 18 were redo, and 8 were primary procedures. Two patients had congenital skin level anal stenosis. The mean follow up was 1.0 years (range 0.4-2.9). The average preprocedure anal size was Hegar 8, which after HMA increased 8 Hegar sizes to 16 (95% CI 7-9, p < 0.001). There were no operative complications. One patient restenosed and required a secondary procedure. CONCLUSION HMA is a safe procedure for skin-level anal strictures following PSARP (primary and redo) and can also be used in some rare cases of congenital anal stenosis. Long-term follow up to determine the restricture rate is ongoing. A plan to do an HMA if a stricture develops may offer an alternative to routine anal dilations, particularly after a redo PSARP in an older child. TYPE OF STUDY Case series. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level IV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Devin R Halleran
- Center for Colorectal and Pelvic Reconstruction, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH.
| | | | - Rebecca M Rentea
- Center for Colorectal and Pelvic Reconstruction, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH
| | - Hira Ahmad
- Center for Colorectal and Pelvic Reconstruction, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH
| | - Laura Weaver
- Center for Colorectal and Pelvic Reconstruction, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH
| | - Carlos Reck
- Center for Colorectal and Pelvic Reconstruction, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH
| | - Alessandra C Gasior
- Center for Colorectal and Pelvic Reconstruction, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH
| | - Marc A Levitt
- Center for Colorectal and Pelvic Reconstruction, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH
| | - Richard J Wood
- Center for Colorectal and Pelvic Reconstruction, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Abstract
Imperforate anus, a variant of anorectal malformation (ARM), is a common congenital anomaly requiring surgical attention in the newborn period. It may present with a variety of anatomic configurations, largely dependent on the presence and location of a fistula. The location (or characteristics) of a fistula, which usually lies between the gastrointestinal tract and the genitourinary tract or perineum, is often used in determining the type and timing of operative management. This article discusses the work-up and management, modes of treatment and their postoperative outcomes, and continued controversy regarding the use of minimally invasive surgical approaches to ARM.
Collapse
|