Outcome of males with high anorectal malformations treated with laparoscopic-assisted anorectal pull-through: preliminary results of a comparative study with the open approach in a single institution

Objective

The aim of this study was to analyze the outcome of males with HARM treated with a laparoscopic-assisted anorectal pull-through compared with the open posterior sagittal approach in a single institution.

Methods

This study includes 32 patients: 17 (9 with a rectoprostatic fistula [RPF] and 8 with a rectovesical fistula [RVF]) who underwent laparoscopic-assisted anorectal pull-through from October 2001 onward and 15 (8 with an RPF and 7 with an RVF) treated by posterior sagittal approach before that date. Patients were reviewed retrospectively but were operated on by the authors and had longitudinal follow-up. Parameters analyzed included associated anomalies, sacral ratio (SR) index, age at surgery, operative time, complications, presence of voluntary bowel movements, constipation, and soiling. A good outcome was determined by absent or grade 1 soiling and a poor outcome result by soiling grades 2 and 3.

Results

Mean age at surgery was 22 and 37.5 months for patients with RPF and RVF, respectively, in the laparoscopic group and 29.2 and 25.7 months in the open group. Operative time was significantly shorter (P < .0036) for the laparoscopic RVF repair compared with the open approach. In patients with RPF, 50% in the laparoscopic (L) and 37.5% in the open (O) approach had an SR below 0.6. Fifty percent of all patients with RVF had an SR below 0.6, making groups comparable in terms of evaluating bowel function. Four patients were excluded in the analysis of functional results. Voluntary bowel movements with previous defecatory sensation were present in 83.l3% (5/6) in L vs 87.5% (7/8) in O patients with RPF and 62.5% (5/8) L vs 50% (3/6) in O patients with RVF. Grade 1 soiling was present in 50% (3/6) vs 62.5% (5/8) of patients with RPF and 37.5% (3/8) vs 16% (1/6) of patients with RVF in the L and O groups, respectively. Soiling grade 2 or 3 was present in 50% (3/6) vs 12.5% (1/8) of patients with RPF and 37.5% (3/8) vs 50% (3/6) of patients with RVF in the L and O groups, respectively. The risk of poor outcome was 61% in the group with SR lower than 0.6 vs 13% in the group with a higher ratio. By stratifying the groups according to type of surgery or anatomical type, these results were maintained.

Conclusion

The laparoscopic approach is a reasonable surgical option for the management of HARM. Laparoscopic approach was less time consuming in patients with RVF without impairing functional results.     

Midterm follow-up study of high-type imperforate anus after laparoscopically assisted anorectoplasty

Purpose

The aim of this study was to evaluate postoperative anal function of high-type imperforate anus after laparoscopically assisted anorectoplasty (LAARP).

Methods

Between 2000 and 2002, LAARP was performed in 13 patients with high-type imperforate anus. Clinical data of the LAARP group were compared with the posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP) group (n = 7) operated before 2000. All patients were treated with initial colostomy in the newborn period. After anorectoplasty, daily glycerin enemas were given for postoperative bowel management. Anorectal function of these patients was evaluated using the Kelly score and manometry at the age of 3 to 5 years (LAARP) and 5 to 6 years (PSARP).

Results

Age at evaluation in the LAARP group was younger than that in the PSARP group (51 ± 10 vs 73 ± 12 months, P < .01). Kelly score was 3.8 ± 1.3 vs 3.4 ± 0.8, respectively. Resting pressure of internal sphincter was 31 ± 11 vs 33 ± 10 cm H₂O, respectively. Relaxation reflex of the internal anal sphincter was observed in 62% (8/13) and 29% (2/7), respectively.

Conclusions

Midterm follow-up study revealed that satisfactory fecal continence can be achieved in patients with high-type imperforate anus after LAARP. Laparoscopically assisted anorectoplasty may be a good alternative in this patient population. However, long-term follow-up is necessary to compare the benefits of LAARP against PSARP.     

The treatment of high and intermediate anorectal malformations: one stage or three procedures?

Background/Purpose

The aim of this study was to examine the safety, feasibility, and the long-term outcome of complete 1-stage repair of high and intermediate anorectal malformation using posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP) in a neonate.

Methods

One hundred thirteen patients with high-type and intermediate-type anorectal malformations (ARM) underwent follow-up. Of 113 cases, 48 cases entailed a divided colostomy, definitive operation, and colostomy closure (group I); the other 65 patients underwent 1-stage PSARP (group II). Anorectal function was measured by the modified Wingspread scoring, including “excellent,” “good,” “fair,” and “poor.” In barium enema studies, anorectal angulation was judged as “clear,” “unclear,” and “not present,” and leakage of barium was observed in the meantime. For anorectal manometric studies, anal resting pressure (ARP), anal squeezing pressure (ASP), and positive anorectal reflex (PAR) were measured.

Results

In group I, the rate of excellent and good scores was 58.3% (28 of 48). In the barium enema examination, 85.4% (41 of 48) was clear and 14.6%(7 of 48) unclear or not present. The rate of barium leakage was 10.4% (5 of 48). In group II, the rate of excellent and good was 53.8% (35 of 65). Anorectal angulations were clear in 83.1% of patients (54 of 65). Barium leakage happened in 7.69% of patients (5 of 65). Early operative complications occurred in 56.3% (27 of 48) of patients in group I and 29.2% (19 of 65) in group II. The incidence of colostomy complications in group I was 39.6% (19 of 48). Soiling and constipation were the major complications after the PSARP operation. The respective rates of constipation in the 2 groups were 47.9% (23 of 48) and 44.6% (29 of 65), and the respective rates of soiling were 47.9% (23 of 48) and 50.8% (33 of 65). There was no significant difference in the mean ARP between the 2 groups.

Conclusions

The 1-stage PSARP procedure in the neonate not only achieves the same long-term outcome as the conventional PSARP procedure but also involves fewer short-term complications. Complete 1-stage repair using the PSARP to treat high-type and intermediate-type anorectal malformations is safe and feasible.     

Fecal continence in patients having undergone posterior sagittal anorectoplasty procedure for a high anorectal malformation improves at adolescence, as constipation disappears

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: Constipation is a major complication in patients who have undergone posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP) operation for a high anorectal malformation. Overflow incontinence is the main cause of fecal soiling in these patients. The aim of this study was to outline the natural history of constipation in patients with high anorectal malformations and relate this to the functional outcome at the end of the patient's growth period. METHODS: The study group consisted of 22 pubertal or postpubertal patients (median age 15; range, 13 to 25) with high or intermediate anorectal malformations repaired by PSARP procedure. The patients have been followed-up since birth. Constipation was defined as a need to use medical treatment or diet to ensure bowel emptying. Continence was classified as follows: grade 1, no soiling in any circumstances; grade 2, staining less than once a week, no fecal accidents; grade 3, staining more than once a week, no fecal accidents; grade 4, daily soiling or accidents, need for regular enemas, or the antegrade colonic enema procedure. All patients underwent anorectal manometry and magnetic resonance imaging of the spine and spinal cord. RESULTS: At the time of the study 2 (9%) of the 22 study group patients had constipation, but 15 (68%) had been constipated before puberty. Eleven patients (50%) were fully continent (grade 1) without constipation. Six of those had a history of constipation associated soiling. Three patients (14%) had occasional staining (grade 2) and no constipation. Two of them had been constipated with significant soiling before the onset of puberty. In the 5 (22%) patients with frequent staining (grade 3) the degree of soiling had decreased after the disappearance of constipation. Two of the 3 patients with poor outcome (grade 4) require regular enemas for recalcitrant constipation. Spinal cord anomalies were detected in 4 and abnormal sacrum in 15 patients. Of the anorectal manometric parameters, only the force of voluntary sphincter squeeze correlated with the functional result. CONCLUSION: In the majority of patients who underwent PSARP procedure for high anorectal malformation, constipation disappears at adolescence, and this is associated with improved fecal continence outcome.     

Long term outcomes of laparoscopic-assisted anorectoplasty: A comparison study with posterior sagittal anorectoplasty

Purpose

The aim of this study is to compare the long term outcomes between laparoscopic-assisted anorectoplasty (LAARP) and posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP) for children with rectobladderneck and rectoprostatic fistula anorectal malformations (ARM).

Methods

Thirty-two ARM children with rectobladderneck and rectoprostatic fistula who underwent LAARP between October 2001 and March 2012 were reviewed. The outcomes were compared with those of 34 ARM children who underwent PSARP between August 1992 and September 2001. The sacral ratio (SR), age at operation, operative time, postoperative hospital stay and complications were evaluated. Bowel functions were assessed using the Krickenbeck classification.

Results

The mean operative time of the LAARP was significantly shorter than that of PSARP group (1.62 ± 0.40 vs 2.13 ± 0.30 h). The postoperative hospital stay was significantly shorter in the LAARP group (5.8 ± 0.65 vs 8.4 ± 0.67 h). The wound infections (11.8% vs 0%) and recurrent fistula (11.8% vs 0%) were more common in PSARP patients. The overall morbidity rate of PSARP group was significantly higher than that of the LAARP group (35.3% vs 12.5%, p < 0.05). However, 7.5% of the LAARP patients developed rectal prolapse. Twenty-four of 32 patients were followed up for more than 3 years in LAARP group. The median follow up period was 7.5 years (range 4–11) in LAARP patients and 15.5 years (range 11–20) in PSARP patients. The rates of voluntary bowel movement, soiling (grade 1, 2 & 3) were similar in both groups. More patients from PSARP group developed grade 2 or 3 constipation (22.5% vs 0%, P < 0.01).

Conclusions

Compared to PSARP, LAARP is a less invasive procedure. The long term functional outcomes after LAARP were equivalent if not better than those of PSARP.     

Posterior sagittal anorectoplasty is superior to sacroperineal-sacroabdominoperineal pull-through: a long-term follow-up study in boys with high anorectal anomalies

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE: It is unclear which surgical method offers best long-term functional results in patients with high anorectal anomalies. The purpose of this study was to compare the long-term outcome of sacroperineal-sacroabdominoperineal pull-through (SP-SAP) to that of posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP). METHODS: Only boys with high anorectal anomalies (rectourethral fistula) were included in the study to get fully comparable patient groups. From 1975 to 1987, 36 consecutive patients underwent anorectal reconstruction: 19 had SP-SAP (1975 to 1983) and 17 PSARP (12 with internal sphincter-sparing technique, 1983 to 1987). The late bowel function (age at follow up, SP-SAP, 19 years; range, 15 to 22; PSARP, 13 years; range, 10 to 19) was evaluated by clinical interview and examination, and anorectal manometry. RESULTS: Six (35%) of the PSARP patients and one (5%) of the SP-SAP patients (P < .04) were always clean without any adjunctive measures. Three PSARP patients and two SP-SAP patients stayed clean with daily enemas. In the PSARP patients with soiling, the median frequency of soiling episodes in a month was four (range, 1 to 16), in the SP-SAP patients, 20 (range, 2 to 28, P < .001). None of the SP-SAP patients but 8 of 17 of the PSARP patients had constipation requiring diet or oral medication. Two PSARP patients and four SP-SAP patients had occasional faecal accidents. The median daily bowel movements in the PSARP group was one (range, one to four) and in the SP-SAP group, three (range, one to five, P < .001). The PSARP patients had significantly higher anorectal resting and squeeze pressures and voluntary sphincter force (cm/H2O, PSARP: mean resting, 47+/-9; mean squeeze, 106+/-29; mean voluntary sphincter force, 60+/-22; SP/SAP: mean resting, 27+/-10; mean squeeze, 68+/-22; mean voluntary sphincter force, 41+/-17; P < .01). Thirteen (76%) of the 17 PSARP patients and none of SP-SAP patients had positive rectoanal reflex indicating functional internal sphincter. CONCLUSIONS: In boys with high anorectal anomalies, PSARP clearly is superior to sacroperineal and sacroabdominoperineal pull-through in terms of long-term bowel function and faecal continence.     

Robotic-assisted anorectal pull-through for anorectal malformations

Background/purpose

Many reports have addressed the feasibility and safety of using robotic surgery in children. To our knowledge, no published report has described the use of a surgical robot in the repair of anorectal malformations (ARMs).

Methods

Included children underwent robotic-assisted repair of ARMs with rectourethral fistula between April 2006 and March 2010 at King Khalid University Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, using the da Vinci Surgical System. Their medical records were reviewed with respect to demographic data, associated anomalies, techniques and operative procedures, complications, outcomes, and follow-up.

Results

Five male infants (mean age, 6.6 months) underwent robotic-assisted repair of ARMs with rectourethral fistula using the Georgeson technique. The fistulae were divided and ligated in 4 patients and was left open in 1. All procedures were successfully completed without conversion to an open technique. One patient developed left-sided epididymo-orchitis postoperatively. All the patients had their colostomy closed. The follow-up ranged from 6 to 36 months. Fecal continence was difficult to assess in 2 patients. Two patients have voluntary bowel movements without soiling. One infant has fecal soiling and is on a laxative/enema for constipation.

Conclusions

Robotically assisted repair of ARMs with rectourethral fistula is feasible and safe. It offers a good alternative to the criterion standard, posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP), for repair of ARMs with rectourethral fistula. More patients and a longer follow-up period are needed for further evaluation of this novel approach.     

Laparoscopically assisted anorectal pull-through for high imperforate anus in infants: intermediate results

Purpose

The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcomes and postoperative anal function in infants with congenital high imperforate anus treated with laparoscopically assisted anorectal pull-through (LAARP).

Methods

From January 2004 to July 2007, 33 patients (28 boys and 5 girls, age ranging from 3 to 10 months) with high imperforate anus underwent LAARP. Clinical data of the LAARP group were retrospectively compared with those treated by posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP; n = 28) during the same time period. Anorectal function of these patients was evaluated using the following 3 methods: the Kelly score, anorectal vector volume manometry, and magnetic resonance imaging between the ages of 3.1 and 4.4 years.

Results

The mean operative time in LAARP and PSARP groups was 112.5 ± 12.4 and 120.4 ± 18.5 minutes (P > .05), respectively. The mean length of hospital stay in the LAARP group was shorter than that of PSARP group (11.3 ± 2.1 vs 14.6 ± 2.3 days, P < .01). No significant difference was observed between LAARP and PSARP groups regarding the Kelly score (3.52 ± 1.42 vs 3.49 ± 0.82). Although magnetic resonance imaging revealed lower malposition rates of rectum in the LAARP group than those of the PSARP group at both I-line (3.0% vs 14.3%) and M-line (3.0% vs 10.7%) levels, this was not statistically different (P > .05). Compared with the PSARP group, lower asymmetric index, larger vector volume, and higher anal canal pressure at rest and during voluntary squeeze were observed in LAARP group (P < .05). However, there were no significant differences in the length of high-pressure zone (15.2 ± 5.8 vs 15.1 ± 6.2 mm) and the presence of rectoanal relaxation reflex (84.8% vs 85.7%).

Conclusions

Satisfactory fecal continence can be achieved in patients with high-type imperforate anus after LAARP. Laparoscopically assisted anorectal pull-through has advantages over PSARP, including shorter hospital stay and better position of rectum. However, long-term follow-up is necessary to compare the benefits of LAARP against PSARP.     

Social quality of life for adult patients with anorectal malformations

Background/Purpose

Pediatric surgeons who performed the initial surgery on anorectal malformations (ARM) lose contact with the patients as they become adults. In the present study, we examined 20- to 40-year-old adult patients with a history of surgery for ARM and analyzed them from the points of social quality of life.

Patients and Methods

Twenty-nine patients with ARM, aged 20 to 40, were surveyed by questionnaire or personal interview. Thirteen with high-type and 9 with intermediate-type anomalies underwent abdominoperineal rectoplasty, and 7 with low-type anomalies underwent perineoplasty between 1965 and 1985. Responses were analyzed from the perspectives of bowel, urinary, and sexual functions and social activity.

Results

One third of patients with high- or intermediate-type anomalies occasionally complained of fecal soiling. However, the other patients gained good bowel function and enjoyed occupational or student life without problems. Fecal soiling was the key factor disturbing occupational life, although the problem remained within a socially manageable level. All of the patients with ARM had normal urinary function. Three of the 18 male patients had sexual problems such as erectile or ejaculatory dysfunction because of associated genitourinary anomalies. Nine of the 11 female patients had regular menstruation and the other 2 had irregular menstrual periods. Five female patients were married and 4 of the 5 had children (1-5 children). Modes of delivery were normal vaginal delivery in 8 and cesarean section in 1. Only one of the 5 had a slight sacral anomaly. However, she had no apparent abnormality of bladder function and got through pregnancy and delivery without difficulty.

Conclusion

One third of adult patients with high- or intermediate-type anomalies after abdominoperineal rectoplasty had some problems in bowel function. Fecal soiling was the key factor that disturbed their occupational life. Most of the patients had normal urinary and sexual functions if they did not have associated genitourinary anomalies and enjoyed social activities.     

Evaluation of defecative function 5 years or longer after laparoscopic-assisted pull-through for imperforate anus

Background

Laparoscopic anorectoplasty was introduced in 2000, but the procedure has not yet gained universal acceptance. Previous studies, including ours, reported satisfactory early postoperative outcome as compared with posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP), but mid- to long-term results are not available. Here, we aim to evaluate the mid- to long-term defecative function in these patients.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective study was carried out and included all patients who underwent laparoscopic-assisted anorectoplasty for high-/intermediate-type imperforate anus between 2001 and 2005. Their degree of continence was graded according to the Krickenbeck classification and compared with historical controls treated with PSARP. The results were compared using χ² test, and P < .05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

There were 18 patients who underwent laparoscopic anorectoplasty (LAR) in the study period. They were compared with 20 historical PSARP patients. For defecation sensation, 16 of the 18 LAR patients were positive, whereas there were 16 of 20 PSARP patients. Eight LAR patients were clean without any fecal soiling or incontinence (11/20 PSARP). Only 3 of 18 LAR had constipation as compared with 7 of 20 PSARP. The need for rectal enema for evacuation was seen in 1 of 20 LAR patients and 2 of 20 PSARP patients (for all categories, P > .05).

Conclusions

Mid- to long-term follow-up study revealed satisfactory defecative function for patients with high-/intermediate-type imperforate anus after LAR. The outcome is at least as good as PSARP. Longer term follow-up with larger sample size is necessary to demonstrate the benefits of LAR over PSARP.     

Colonic motility and functional assessment of the patients with anorectal malformations according to Krickenbeck consensus

Background/Purpose

In this study, the patients operated on for anorectal malformations (ARM) were evaluated in terms of segmental (SCTT) and total colonic transit times (TCTT) and clinical status according to Krickenbeck consensus before and after treatments.

Methods

Forty-one patients with ARM (28 males/13 females) older than 3 years (median age, 7.7 years; range, 3-25) who had no therapy before were assessed for voluntary bowel movements (VBM), soiling (from 1 to 3), and constipation (from 1 to 3), retrospectively. Distribution of the patients were rectourethral fistula (17), perineal fistula (PF; 8), vestibular fistula (VF; 8), cloaca (3), rectovesical fistula (1), rectovaginal fistula (1), pouch colon with colovestibular fistula (1), no fistula (1), and unknown (1). The patients ingested daily 20 radiopaque markers for 3 days, followed by a single abdominal x-ray on days 4 and 7 if needed. The results were compared with the reference values in the literature.

Results

Mean follow-up period was 36 months (range, 1-108.5 months). All patients but 1 had soiling in different degrees. Twenty-one patients who had VBM were divided into group 1, with constipation (n = 9), and group 2, without constipation (n = 12). The other 19 patients who had no VBM were divided into group 3, with constipation (n = 14), and group 4, without constipation (n = 5). The longest TCTT and rectosigmoid SCTT were found in group 3 (69.5 and 35.2 hours, respectively). Group 1 had long SCTT in rectosigmoid but normal TCTT (27.8 and 47.4 hours, respectively). Groups 2 and 4 had normal SCTT and TCTT, and there was no significant difference between them. After the appropriate treatment, of the patients, 45% (18/40) had no soiling, and the soiling score decreased to grade 1 in 27.5% (11/40) and to grade 2 in 10% (4/40). Four had unchanged soiling score, and 3 were excluded from the study because of follow-up problems. Half of the patients in group 3 (4 VF, 2 rectourethral fistula, PF) gained VBM without soiling after laxative treatment. Only four of 23 patients had decreased constipation score (2 cloaca, PF, VF).

Conclusions

In this study, ARM patients complaining of constipation with or without VBM had prolonged SCTT in the rectosigmoid region. Percentage of the improvement in soiling scores was more conspicuous than that of constipation scores. The dismal figure observed at the first examination in the assessment of VBM was not associated with an unfavorable improvement with laxative treatment. So, it is suggested that assessment of VBM initially may be deceptive for clinical status.     

Follow-up studies of anorectal malformations after posterior sagittal anorectoplasty

Background/Purpose: There are few follow-up studies comparing posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP) with conventional procedures for patients with anorectal malformations (ARM). The authors have examined retrospectively postoperative anorectal function of patients with ARM treated with PSARP compared with those treated with conventional methods. Methods: Anorectal function in 23 patients with high and intermediate type anorectal malformations (PSARP group), who underwent PSARP more than 4 years previously, were assessed by Kelly's clinical scoring system and objective studies. These results were compared with those in 14 cases (5 high and 9 intermediate type cases; control group), who underwent other conventional surgical procedures. Results: Using Kelly's clinical scoring system, scores of the PSARP group compared with the control group were good in 48% versus 21%, fair in 48% versus 58%, and poor in 4% versus 21%, respectively. Barium enema studies suggested better anorectal sphincteric function in patients with high anorectal malformation in the PSARP group. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies showed more correct placement of the rectum through the striated muscle complex in the PSARP group at the I-line level. Manometric studies showed no difference in maximum resting pressure, anal canal length, and the incidence of anorectal reflex between the two groups. Conclusions: The favorable results of MRI and barium enema studies can be explained by direct visualization of the striated muscle complex with the aid of electrical stimulation as well as no harmful effects of amputation of the sphincter muscle in PSARP. However, manometric studies suggest anorectal function in patients with high and intermediate anorectal malformations is limited even after PSARP. Long-term postoperative follow-up with adequate bowel management is required for all patients with high or intermediate anorectal malformation.     

Is there a role for surgery beyond colonic aganglionosis and anorectal malformations in children with intractable constipation?

Purpose

The aim of this study was to assess benefit of surgery in the treatment of childhood constipation in children without aganglionosis or anorectal malformations.

Methods

Retrospective chart review and follow-up questionnaire of 19 children (10 girls, age 7.6 ± 3.9 years) who underwent surgery after colonic and anorectal manometry had documented abnormal motility. Children at the time of manometric evaluation had symptoms of intractable constipation a mean of 5.1 ± 2.5 years. Follow-up questionnaires were administered to caregivers a mean of 11.4 ± 9.3 months after surgical intervention.

Results

Proximal colonic abnormalities were seen in 2 patients, abnormalities involving the distal colon and rectosigmoid region in 13 patients, pancolonic abnormalities in 2 patients, and incomplete relaxation of the internal anal sphincter in 2 patients. Surgery led to increase in frequency of bowel movements per week (8.1 v 1.9; P < .005), decrease in soiling episodes per week (2.20 v 4.7; P < .01), and decrease in daily use of medications for constipation (0.8 v 2.3; P < .05). Adverse events included skin breakdown at site of ostomy (9%), fecal incontinence after pull-through procedure (13%), and persistent constipation (4.5%). Parents felt that the symptoms after surgery were completely resolved in 89% of patients.

Conclusions

Surgery may be beneficial in the management children with chronic intractable constipation and documented abnormalities in motility.     

Comparison of clinical outcomes and anorectal manometry in patients with congenital anorectal malformations treated with posterior sagittal anorectoplasty and laparoscopically assisted anorectal pull through

Purpose

The objective of this study is to analyze the clinical outcomes and anorectal manometry (AM) in infants with congenital high anorectal malformations treated with posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP) and laparoscopically assisted anorectal pull through (LAARP).

Materials and Methods

From August 2005 to December 2008, 23 patients with congenital high anorectal malformations were randomly distributed into PSARP and LAARP groups. All of them underwent LAARP (11 cases) or PSARP (12 cases) at 2 or 3 months old. Clinical outcomes and results of anorectal manometry were compared between patients at the age of 17.4 ± 4.9 and 19.3 ± 6.2 months (P = .4270), respectively.

Results

Kelly's clinical score for patients in LAARP and PSARP groups was 3.91 ± 1.14 and 3.83 ± 1.40 (P = .8827), respectively. Anal canal resting pressure and high-pressure zone length were 29.4 ± 7.2 vs 23.4 ± 6.5 mm Hg (P = .0479) and 14.9 ± 3.0 vs 13.9 ± 3.1 mm (P = .4414), respectively. Rectal anal inhibitory reflex was observed in 81.8% (9/11) and 83.3% (10/12) patients (P = 1.0000), respectively. The mean length of stay during the second hospitalization was 10.6 ± 0.9 and 14.3 ± 1.4 days (P < .0001), respectively.

Conclusions

Although no significant difference can be noted in clinical scoring between both groups, the results of anorectal manometry indicate that LAARP can significantly improve anal canal resting pressure and reduce the length of stay.     

Comparison of anorectal angle and continence after Georgeson and Peña procedures for high/intermediate imperforate anus

Aim

The anorectal angle (AA) influences defecation after pull-through (PT) for imperforate anus (IA). We compared postoperative AA and continence after Georgeson's laparoscopy-assisted colon PT (GPT) and Peña's posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP) for high/intermediate-type IA.

Methods

We reviewed 33 high/intermediate-type IA cases (20 GPTs and 13 PSARPs) prospectively. All had colostomy initially as neonates. Anorectal angle was measured as the angle between the rectum and the anal canal on barium enema. A fecal continence evaluation questionnaire (FCEQ) consisting of 5 parameters (frequency of defecation, staining/soiling, perianal erosion, anal shape, and requirement for medication; maximum score = 10) was evaluated in 28 cases (15 GPTs and 13 PSARPs) followed up for more than 3 years.

Results

Mean age at PT was similar (6.6 months for GPT and 6.3 months for PSARP; P = not significant). There was no significant difference in mean AA. The FCEQ scores for GPT were generally higher throughout the study and significantly better from 3 years postoperatively (P < .05).

Conclusions

We are the first to confirm that effective AA similar to PSARP can be achieved after GPT, although FCEQ would suggest that GPT has less detrimental functional impact.     

Transanal one-stage endorectal pull-through for Hirschsprung's disease: a multicenter study

Background/purpose

Transanal endorectal pull-through (TEPT) is the latest development in treatment of Hirschsprung’s disease (HD). This prospective study was designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of 1 stage TEPT technique in the management of patients with HD.

Methods

One hundred forty-nine children (116 boys and 33 girls) aged 8 days to 14 years underwent 1 stage TEPT procedure over an 18-month period at 5 Egyptian academic pediatric surgical centers and affiliated hospitals. Median follow-up was 12 months (range, 3 to 21 months). These patients were evaluated with regard to age, sex, length of the aganglionic segment, intraoperative details, and postoperative functional results or complications. An electromyogram (EMG), endorectal ultrasound scan, and lower gastrointestinal (GI) motility studies were reserved for patients with postoperative problems with bowel control.

Results

Mean operating time was 120.2 ± 27.8 minutes (range, 60 to 210 minutes). The average length of resected bowel was 26.8 ± 12.4 cm (range, 15 to 45 cm). Thirteen patients required laparotomy because of extension of aganglionic segment beyond the sigmoid colon in 9, tear in the mesenteric vessels in 2, and difficulties in getting to the submucosal plane in 2. Three deaths (2%) occurred 3 days, 4 days, and 4 weeks postoperatively, respectively. Postoperative complications included transient perianal excoriation in 48 patients (30 were <3 months of age), enterocolitis (n = 26), anastomotic stricture (n = 7), recurrent constipation (n = 6), hypoganglionosis at distal end of pulled through segment (n = 2), cuff abscess (n = 3), anastomotic leak (n = 1), adhesive bowel obstruction (n = 1), and rectal prolapse (n = 1). Complete anorectal continence was noted in 35 of 42 (83.3%) children older than 3 years, whereas soiling and frequent accidents still occur in 7, who showed a steady improvement in their continence status.

Conclusions

One-stage TEPT technique is both feasible and safe technique in properly selected children with rectosigmoid HD in all ages. The technique is easily learned and is associated with excellent clinical results.     

Long-term follow-up of functional outcome in patients with a cloacal malformation: A systematic review

Background

Reconstructive surgery is performed in patients with cloacal malformations to achieve anorectal, urological, and gynecological function. The aim of this study was to evaluate the functional outcome of cloacal malformation repair as reported in literature.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines using PubMed, EMbase, and Web-of-Science. Records were assessed for the reporting of functional outcomes, which was divided into anorectal, urological, or gynecological function. Studies were used in qualitative (Rangel score) and quantitative syntheses.

Results

Twelve publications were eligible for inclusion. Voluntary bowel movements were reported in 108 of 188 (57%), soiling in 146 of 205 (71%), and constipation in 31 of 61 patients (51%). Spontaneous voiding was reported for 138 of 299 patients (46%). 141 of 332 patients (42%) used intermittent catheterization, and 53 of 237 patients (22%) had a urinary diversion. Normal menstruations were reported for 25 of 71 patients (35%). Centers with limited experience reported similar outcome compared to centers with more experience (≥ 1 patients/year).

Conclusion

In this review we present functional outcome of the largest pooled cohort of patients with cloacal malformations as reported from 1993 to 2012. Functional disturbances are frequently encountered in anorectal, urological, as well as gynecological systems. Reporting of functional outcome in these patients should improve to increase knowledge about long-term results in patients with this rare malformation and to reach higher study quality. Especially, sacral and spinal anomalies should always be reported given their impact on functional outcome. Specialized care centers may be of great importance for patients with rare and complex conditions.     

Rectal prolapse following posterior sagittal anorectoplasty for anorectal malformations

Purpose

Rectal prolapse is a known postoperative problem in children with anorectal malformations. The aims of this study were to determine the incidence of significant rectal prolapse (>5 mm), to objectively quantify its predisposing factors, and to offer recommendations as to its prevention and surgical treatment.

Methods

The authors reviewed their series of 1619 patients with anorectal malformations; 1169 underwent primary posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP) at their institution between 1980 and 2002, and complete records were available for 833. The series was analyzed for incidence of prolapse, type of anorectal malformation, status of the sacrum, muscle quality, associated vertebral and spinal anomalies, and postoperative constipation. A specific technique for prolapse repair was used.

Results

Of 833 patients, 45 developed significant rectal prolapse (3.8%). The mean age at the time of PSARP was 0.73 years (range, 0.19-5 years). The average time to recognition of prolapse following PSARP was 13.1 months. Of these 45 patients, 32 required surgical repair and of those, 3 required a second surgical repair. The incidence of prolapse varied by complexity of anorectal defect: cloaca (6.2%), rectobladder neck fistula (6.8%), rectourethral fistula (5.4%), rectovestibular fistula (1.2%), rectal atresia (0%), and rectoperineal fistula (0%). There was a significantly increased incidence of prolapse in patients with a low muscle quality score and in patients with vertebral anomalies (20% vs 3.2%). The presence of a tethered cord and an abnormal sacral ratio did not correlate with an increased incidence of prolapse. Twenty-two patients developed prolapse following colostomy closure, and of these, 12 (55%) suffered from constipation.

Conclusions

The overall incidence of significant rectal prolapse following PSARP is low. Prevention of prolapse with the PSARP technique may be because of key technical steps. Patients with higher anorectal malformations, poorer muscle quality, and vertebral anomalies had a greater risk of developing postoperative rectal prolapse. The presence of tethered cord and quality of the sacrum were not predictive of postoperative prolapse. Constipation seems to be a factor in the development of prolapse.     

Ten-year experience in the management of total colonic aganglionosis

Purpose

The aim of this study was to review the 10 years' experience in the management of patients with total colonic aganglionosis (TCA) and follow-up of their health condition.

Methods

Cases of 25 patients with TCA in the Children's Hospital of Fudan University from 1996 to 2005 were reviewed and analyzed. The confirmed diagnosis was established by an intraoperative frozen-section biopsy of the rectum, colon, appendix, and ileum. The data included in this study accounted for sex, age, signs of presentation, any familiar history of Hirschsprung disease (HD) or associated abnormalities, and ileal involvement. Plain x-ray films, barium enema, and anorectal manometry were provided for evaluation. The results of surgical management were analyzed for weight at definite operation, blood requirement during operation, the total parenteral nutrition duration, and the pre- and postoperative complications of these patients. Follow-up data were collected regarding growth development, stool frequency, stool consistency, fecal soiling, incontinence, enterocolitis, and anal stricture.

Results

Among 25 patients, 8 (32%) females and 17 (68%) males were diagnosed as having TCA. Sixteen patients (64%) were evaluated at the neonatal period, whereas 9 patients (36%) were evaluated after the neonatal period. All 25 patients received at least 1 plain abdominal radiograph or barium enema at the university hospital before operation.However, there was no specific pathognomonic finding that may provide a definite diagnosis. Nineteen (76%) patients underwent initial laparotomy at our institute and 6 patients (24%) were operated on beforehand at other hospitals. Twenty-three (92%) patients were diagnosed as having TCA and underwent ileostomy, whereas 2 (8%) patients underwent primary pull-through procedure. Eighteen (72%) patients had undergone definite surgery. Pre- and postoperative complications included enterocolitis (44.4%), perianal excoriation (77.7%), electrolyte imbalance (50%), and anastomotic leak (16.6%). Average duration of total parenteral nutrition before operation was 17.77 ± 12.54 days and after operation was 10.27 ± 5.23 days. Mean follow-up time was 27.6 ± 35.39 months. Two patients had 5 to 6 bowel movements per day. Seven had a frequency of stool ranging between 1 and 3 bowel movements per day. Their bowel movements returned to normal about 12 to 18 months after surgery. On follow-up, the height and weight development of the patients was found to be normal.

Conclusions

Gradual progress was observed in all the patients that took part in the study, and all patients had positive results eventually.