Rectoperineal Fistula Research Articles

Exploration of the method and efficacy of treatments for intractable pelvic pain caused by rectal or bladder fistula

Objective: To explore the causes and therapeutic effects of pelvic pain caused by rectal fistula or bladder fistula after comprehensive treatment of cervical cancer and rectal cancer (radiotherapy, surgery, chemotherapy, and other treatments). Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical and pathological data of patients with pelvic tumors admitted to the First People's Hospital of Yinchuan City, Ningxia and the Affiliated Cancer Hospital of Zhengzhou University from June 2016 to June 2022. The causes of persistent pelvic pain in patients after comprehensive treatment was investigated, and the corresponding therapeutic effects after clinical treatment was observed. Results: Thirty-two tumor patients experienced persistent pain after comprehensive treatment, including 22 cases of cervical cancer and 10 cases of rectal cancer. The preoperative pain of the entire group of patients was evaluated using the digital grading method, with a pain score of (7.88±1.31) points. Among the 32 patients, there were 16 cases of rectovaginal fistula or ileovaginal fistula, 9 cases of vesicovaginal fistula, 5 cases of rectoperineal fistula, and 2 cases of vesicovaginorectal fistula. Thirty-two patients were initially treated with medication to relieve pain, and according to the ruptured organs, a fistula was made to the corresponding proximal intestinal canal and renal pelvis to intercept the intestinal contents and urine. However, the pain did not significantly be improved. The pain score of treatment with the above methods for one week was (8.13±1.13) points, and there was no statistically significant difference compared to preoperative treatment (P=0.417). In the later stage, based on a comprehensive evaluation of whether the tumor had recurred, the value of organ preservation, the benefits of surgery, the balance between survival time and improving quality of life, pathological organ resection or repair was performed. The surgical methods included repair of leaks, local debridement combined with irrigation of proximal intestinal fluid, distal closure of the sigmoid colon combined with proximal ostomy, posterior pelvic organ resection, anterior pelvic organ resection, and total pelvic organ resection. One week after surgery, the patients' pain completely relieved or disappeared, with the pain score of (1.72±1.37) points, which was significantly divergent from the preoperative and initial surgical treatments (P＜0.001). Conclusions: Palliative pyelostomy and proximal enterostomy cannot effectively alleviate persistent pelvic floor pain. The fundamental way to alleviate pain is complete blocking of the inflammatory erosion of the intestinal fluid and urine.

Clinical characteristics of congenital heart defects in mild congenital anorectal malformation: single-centre experience

ObjectiveTo analyze the clinical characteristics and types of congenital heart defect (CHD) in mild congenital anorectal malformation (CARM), namely the rectoperineal and rectovestibular fistulas.MethodsThe retrospective study of 183 patients with mild CARM was conducted with assessments of demographic information, color Doppler echocardiography results, and follow-up data. We performed an analysis of the clinical characteristics of CHD, grouping them based on sex and type of mild CARM.ResultsOf the 183 patients, rectoperineal fistula occurred in 133 patients (72.7%), while the frequency of CHD was 79.8% (146/183). Ventricular septal defects (VSDs) occur more frequently in patients with rectoperineal fistula compared to those with rectovestibular fistula (1.5% vs. 10%), while the opposite trend was observed for patent ductus arteriosus (PDAs) (39.8% vs. 22.0%). Additionally, males presented higher frequency of PDA (42.7% vs. 26.4%) and self-healing (6 months: 87.2% vs. 42.6%; 12 months: 91.0% vs. 63.2%) than females. However, males had a lower rate of undergoing cardiac surgery (6.4% vs. 17.6%) and a younger median diagnosis age (1 day vs. 9 days).ConclusionOur study indicates that there is a necessity for meticulous cardiac assessment and follow-up in neonates diagnosed with mild CARM.

Posterior rectal advancement with fistula preservation in patients with anorectal malformation. A multicenter study.

Anorectal malformations (ARM) with rectoperineal fistula are mainly repaired with a posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP), which can be challenging given the proximity of the fistula to the vagina and urethra. The posterior rectal advancement anoplasty (PRAA), preserves the anterior wall of the fistula without leaving an anterior or a posterior sagittal incision. It is indicated for selected cases of ARM with rectoperineal fistula in which the anterior aspect of the fistula is partially surrounded by sphincter complex. Multicentre and retrospective study of patients with rectoperineal fistula treated with PRAA. We analysed gender, associated malformations, age, operative time, short and long-term results, and complications. 18 patients aged 93.5 (1.75-312) days underwent PRAA. Surgical time was 35 (25-45) minutes and feeding was started at 24 (5-48) hours postoperatively. There were no vaginal or urethral injuries, no wound infections or dehiscenses. Throughout the 38 (12.75-45.50) months of follow-up there were no anal strictures. All patients are passing stool, 11 (61%) of them with the need of a low dose stool softener. Selected patients with rectoperineal fistula can be treated with PRAA with a shorter surgical time and hospital stay. This technique provides good results and lower risk of injury to neighbouring structures.

An acquired recto-perineal fistula as the outcome of sacrococcygeal teratoma treatment

Introduction. An acquired recto-perineal fistula in childhood is a quite rare pathology. One of its main causes is trauma of the perineal part of the rectum and anal canal. That is why, acquired rectoperineal fistulas most often develop after the correction of Hirschsprung’s disease and anorectal malformations.
 Material and methods. The publication presents a rare case of a newborn child with recurrent course of an acquired rectoperineal fistula which developed after sacrococcygeal teratoma treatment. The teratoma was removed when the child was 3 days old. The surgery was complicated with suture dehiscence in the rectal wall defect. After suturing, a separate sigmostoma was placed. At the age of 6 months, the sigmostoma was closed, but after a few days, fistulas were found in the area of drainage and postoperative scar, which required sigmostoma restoration. After the prescribed therapy, the fistulas were obliterated; the stoma was closed again. In 2 weeks, child’s general condition deteriorated, and newly appeared fistulas were noted. It was decided to perform demucosation of the disconnected rectum above the level of anal sphincter and to make fistula through drainage via the rectum lumen.
 Conclusion. Acquired recto-perineal fistulas in childhood is a rare recurrent disease. Though postoperative complications were detected in time, authors could not get independent closure of the fistula, despite numerous interventions. In fact, only the rectum extirpation allowed to separate the fistulous tract from the intestinal lumen. This type of intervention is considered a quite rare one; usually, such complication can be eliminated in a less radical way.

Rectal duplication associated with rectoperineal fistula: A case report

Rectal duplication associated with rectoperineal fistula: A case report

The treatment of congenital recto-vestibular fistula and recto-perineal fistula and effect of the megarectum on defecation.

This study aims to discuss the treatment of congenital recto-vestibular fistula and recto-perineal fistula, and the effect of the megarectum on defecation. Congenital recto-vestibular fistula or recto-perineal fistula is the most common type of anorectal malformation, and surgical methods include posterior sagittal anorectoplasty, anterior sagittal anorectoplasty, and mid-sagittal anorectoplasty, which can be performed at stage one or stage two after the ostomy. In the later stages of a recto-vestibular fistula, constipation is a common complication. Rectal dilatation is frequently associated with constipation, and the effect of rectal dilatation on defecation should be discussed for patients with congenital recto-vestibular or recto-perineal fistula who had rectal dilatation prior to surgery. Rectal dilatation may be one of the causes of constipation for congenital recto-vestibular fistula and recto-perineal fistula. The patients in this study were 67 children with congenital recto-vestibular fistula or recto-perineal fistula treated in our hospital from March 2013 to February 2017. All patients underwent an MRI of the spine and a barium enema. Six patients with myelodysplasia and sacral agenesis were excluded from this study. There were 18 patients with rectal dilatation (ages: 4-month-old to 1 year old, male: 3, female: 15). Seven of them had anterior sagittal anorectoplasty (group A), and 11 had anorectoplasty with dilated rectum resection (group B). Forty-three patients (ages: 3- to 10 months old, male: 6; female: 37) without a dilated rectum underwent anterior sagittal anorectoplasty (group C). All patients were followed up for 1 year to 5 years. Among the 50 patients who had undergone an anoplasty, 5 out of 7 patients with rectal dilatation developed post-operative constipation, and 3 of them had normal defecation after the second resection of the dilated rectum. Only two out of 43 patients without rectal dilatation developed post-operative constipation. One out of 11 patients with rectal dilatation who underwent anoplasty and resection of the dilated rectum developed post-operative constipation. Patients with congenital recto-vestibular fistula or recto-perineal fistula complicated by rectal dilatation are more susceptible to post-operative constipation. Resection of the dilated rectum at the same time can reduce the incidence rate of constipation. A barium enema should be performed pre-operatively for patients with congenital recto-vestibular fistula or recto-perineal fistula. If the dilated rectum is found, it can be resected at the same time.

Хірургічне лікування ізольованої та асоційованої природженої ректопромежинної нориці в дітей

Congenital anorectal malformations (CARM) include a number of different options that differ in their anatomical and functional features. One of these options is rectoperineal fistula (RPF). Purpose - to evaluate the results of surgical treatment of congenital RPF in children, using a differentiated approach to diagnosis and methods of correction of its isolated and associated forms. Materials and methods. The study included 28 patients with RPF, which accounted for 18.2% of all treated CARM: boys - 18 (64.3%), girls - 10 (35.7%). Verification of the main disease and associated developmental defects was carried out on the basis of clinical and instrumental research methods. Isolated anorectal malformation (ARM) was diagnosed in 15 (53.6%) children, 8 (53.3%) boys, 7 (46.7%) girls, and associated - in 13 (46.4%) patients, 10 (76.9%) boys, 3 (23.1%) girls. Results. One-stage surgical treatment was performed in 2 (7.1%) patients with associated ARM. Staged surgical treatment, with colostomy removal and anorectoplasty, was performed in 26 (92.9%) children. Anterosagittal anorectoplasty was performed in 14/26 (53.8%) of children: 10 (71.4%) boys, 4 (28.6%) girls; minimal posterior sagittal - in 26.9% (7/26): 2 (28.6%) boys, 5 (71.4%) girls; posterior sagittal according to Pen, applied in 19, 2% (5/26), and only in boys. The third stage of treatment included closing the stoma from local access. Removal of the colostomy and formation of an end-to-end anastomosis was performed in 25 (96.1%) patients without complications. Conclusions. The use of a differentiated approach to diagnostics and methods of anorectoplasty, as well as the use of a complex of rehabilitation treatment for isolated and associated forms of ARM, allowed to obtain good results - in 81.5% and satisfactory results - in 18.5% of children. The choice of tactics for surgical correction of RPF should be individual for each patient, considering the anatomical and functional features of the defect, gender and the presence of a certain range of associated malformations. The research was carried out in accordance with the principles of the Helsinki Declaration. The study protocol was approved by the Local Ethics Committee of all participating institutions. The informed consent of the patient was obtained for conducting the studies. No conflict of interests was declared by the authors.

Gracilis Muscle Interposition: A Valuable Tool for the Treatment of Failed Repair of Post-partum Rectovaginal Fistulas-A Single-Center Experience.

Rectovaginal fistulas (RVFs) account for approximately 40% of anorectal complications from obstetrical trauma. Treatment can be challenging requiring multiple surgical repairs. Interposition of healthy transposed tissue (lotus or Martius flap or gracilis muscle) has been used for recurrent RVF. We aimed to review our experience with gracilis muscle interposition (GMI) for post-partum RVF. A retrospective analysis of patients who underwent GMI for post-partum RVF from February 1995 to December 2019 was undertaken. Patient demographics, number of prior treatments, comorbidities, tobacco use, postoperative complications, additional procedures, and outcome were assessed. Success was defined as absence of leakage from the repair site after stoma reversal. Six of 119 patients who underwent GMI did so for recurrent post-partum RVF. Median age was 34.2 (28-48) years. All patients had at least 1 previously failed procedure [median: 3 (1-7)] including endorectal advancement flap, fistulotomy, vaginoplasty, mesh interposition, and sphincteroplasty. All patients underwent fecal diversion prior to or at initial procedure. Success was achieved in 4/6 (66.7%) patients; 2 underwent further procedures (1 fistulotomy and 1 rectal flap advancement) for a final 100% success rate as all ileostomies were reversed. Morbidity was reported in 3 (50%) patients, including wound dehiscence, delayed rectoperineal fistula, and granuloma formation in one each, all managed without surgery. There was no morbidity related to stoma closure. Gracilis muscle interposition is a valuable tool for recurrent post-partum RVF. Our ultimate success rate in this very small series was 100% with a relatively low morbidity rate.

Effect of megarectum on postoperative defecation of female patients with congenital rectovestibular fistula or rectoperineal fistula.

To assess the effect of megarectum on postoperative defecation of female patients with congenital rectovestibular fistula or rectoperineal fistula. From March 2013 to February 2021, 74 female patients with congenital rectovestibular fistula or rectoperineal fistula were treated. The age of patients ranged from 3 months to 1 year. Barium enema and spinal cord MRI were performed in all children. 4 patients were removed from the study because of spinal cord and sacral agenesis. Finally, 70 patients underwent one-stage anterior sagittal anorectoplasty (ASARP). Anal endoscopy and anorectal pressure measurement were performed 1 year after surgery. All patients were divided into two groups depending on the presence of megarectum (+) and (-) and observed for constipation and anal sphincter function. 16 patients (4 months to 1 year) were complicated with megarectum, and 5 patients (3 months to 9 months) were without megarectum. The incision infection was seen in 3 patients. All patients were followed up for 1 year to 5 years. Fecal soiling was seen in 2 patients and constipation in 14 patients. Among 16 patients with megarectum, soiling was seen in 1 patient and the constipation in 12 patients. Among 54 patients without megarectum, soiling was seen in 1 patient and constipation in 2 patients. There was a significant difference in the incidence of postoperative constipation between the two groups (megarectum (+) 75% vs. megarectum (-) 3.7% (P < 0.05)). However, there was no significant difference in the score of anal sphincters between the two groups (P < 0.05). And there was no significant difference in anal resting pressure (P = 0.49) and length of anal high pressure area (P = 0.76). 7 patients with constipation and megarectum acquired normal anal function after the dilated rectum was resected. Megarectum increases the possibility of difficult postoperative defecation in the patients with congenital rectovestibular fistula or rectoperineal fistula. However, constipation was not associated with ASARP postoperative effects on sphincter function. Resection of megarectum is helpful to the improvement of constipation.

A Modification of the Anoplasty Technique during a Posterior Sagittal Anorectoplasty and Anorectal Vaginal Urethroplasty Closure: The Para-U-Stitch to Prevent Wound Dehiscence.

Wound dehiscence after posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP) or anorectal vaginal urethroplasty (PSARVUP) for anorectal malformation (ARM) is a morbid complication. We present a novel anoplasty technique employing para-U-stitches along the anterior and posterior portions of the anoplasty, which helps buttress the midline U-stitch and evert the rectal mucosa. We hypothesized that, in addition to standardized pre- and postoperative protocols, this technique would lower rates of wound dehiscence. A retrospective review of patievnts who underwent primary PSARP or PSARVUP with the para-U-stitch technique from 2015 to 2021 was performed. Wound dehiscence was defined as wound disruption requiring operative intervention within 30 days of the index operation. Superficial wound separations were excluded. Descriptive statistics were calculated. The final cohort included 232 patients. Rectoperineal fistula (28.9%) was the most common ARM subtype. PSARP was performed in 75% and PSARVUP in 25%. The majority were reconstructed with a stoma in place (63.4%). Wound dehiscence requiring operative intervention occurred in four patients, for an overall dehiscence rate of 1.7%. The dehiscence rate was lower in PSARPs compared with PSARVUPs (0.6 vs. 5.2%) and lower for reconstruction without a stoma compared with a stoma (1.2 vs. 2.0%). There were additional six patients (2.6%) with superficial wound infections managed conservatively. We present the para-U-stitch anoplasty technique, which is an adjunct to the standard anoplasty during PSARP and PSARVUP. In conjunction with standardized pre- and postoperative protocols, this technique can help decrease rates of wound dehiscence in this patient population.

Characteristics and treatment of congenital perineal groove in male patients.

Congenital perineal groove (CPG) of male patients has rarely been reported before. The purpose of this study was to review our cases and describe their characteristics and treatment. Four male patients diagnosed with CPG were included in this study. Medical records were retrospectively reviewed. Type of CPG and anal position index (API) of the patients were recorded. Follow-up was through outpatient visits. Their age ranged from 4 years and 2 months to 10 years and 9 months. Among the four patients, two complained of intermittent CPG mucosal hemorrhage and the other two had mucous secreting and soiling. The API was 0.24, 0.35, 0.36, and 0.40 for each patient, respectively, all represented anterior displacement. Type of CPG for the four patients were all partial, and the sulcus was from the posterior perineum to the edge of anus. Two patients were associated with hydrocele, imperforated anus, and rectoperineal fistula; one patient had left varicocele; the remaining patient had sacrum split. All the patients had no postoperative complication, and during the follow-up period of 5-8 months, no symptoms recurred in the four patients; they all had normal defecation. Both genders share the common three characteristics. In addition, shortened perineum with anterior anus, association of perineal malformations, and partial type occurrence are the extra morphological features in male patients. Furthermore, CPG in males are rarely accompanied by urinary tract infection. Favorable prognosis could be reached after operation.

Stricture rate in patients after the repair of anorectal malformation following a standardized dilation protocol.

The aim of this study was to determine and analyze the stricture rate in patients who underwent a PSARP or PSARVUP and followed a postoperative protocol of anal dilation (Fig. 1). A retrospective review of patients with anorectal malformation (ARM) who underwent a primary PSARP or PSARVUP from February 2016 to October 2021 was performed. Data collected included patients' demographics, type of ARM, age at the time of operation, postoperative complications, with emphasis on whether there were any strictures or any difficulties during dilations, and on follow-up. During the surgical repair, emphasis was placed on preserving the blood supply of the bowel and performing a tension-free bowel-to-skin anastomosis. Eighty-four patients met the inclusion criteria. Forty-four patients were females: 21 recto-perineal fistula, 12 cloaca, 9 recto-vestibular fistula, one imperforate anus without fistula, and one patient had a complex anorectal and vaginal malformation with an anal stricture and a rectovaginal fistula. Forty patients were males: 14 recto-perineal fistula, 11 recto-urethral bulbar fistula, 6 recto-urethral prostatic fistula, 6 imperforate anus without fistula, and 2 bladder neck fistula. One patient had an anal stenosis with sacral agenesis, without a presacral mass. Patient ages ranged from 0 to 79months (mean 7.5months, median 5months) at the time of surgery. Follow-up time ranged from 7 to 73months (mean 38months, median 35months). No patient suffered of a postoperative anal stricture. Six patients suffered of a rectal prolapse that required a surgical repair. Post-operative anal stricture after PSARP and PSARVUP can be avoided with proper surgical technique and postoperative care. Namely, by preserving adequate blood supply of the bowel and avoiding tension at the anoplasty, and by adhering to a structured protocol of anal dilations.

Rectosigmoid perforations in anorectal malformations with perineal fistulae: The case of contrasting outcomes

Anorectal malformation (ARM) constitutes a wide range of developmental anomalies affecting the distal part of the colon and the urogenital tracts. Rectosigmoid perforation complicating ARM with a perineal fistula discharging meconium and air is extremely uncommon and rarely reported. Here, we report two cases of rectosigmoid perforations in ARM with rectoperineal fistulae who had contrasting outcomes. Two full term male neonates, both with birth weight 3.2kg, Case 1 and case 2, were diagnosed with ARM with rectoperineal fistulae following clinical evaluation on day 2 and 4 of life respectively. There was no clinical suspicion of colonic perforation. Intraoperatively , however, a 5 × 2cm perforation was found extending from the distal colon to the proximal rectum for Case 1 whiles Case 2 had a 7 × 2.5cm rectosigmoid perforation. Both perforations were repaired primarily in single layer and a proximal divided sigmoid colostomy was mounted. Case 1 had an uneventful postoperative recovery and was discharged whereas Case 2 unfortunately died on post-operative day 2. Rectosigmoid perforation complicating ARM with rectoperineal fistula is rare, may be occult and carries significant threat to life. Early presentation, high index of suspicion and prompt surgical intervention are key to a good outcome.

Does presence of a VACTERL anomaly predict an associated gynecologic anomaly in females with anorectal malformations?: A Pediatric Colorectal and Pelvic Learning Consortium Study

BackgroundVACTERL association is defined by the presence of 3 or more anomalies in any of the following systems: vertebral, anorectal, cardiac, trachea-esophageal, renal, or limb. This study hypothesized that the presence of VACTERL association would correlate with an increased risk of gynecologic anomalies in patients with anorectal malformation (ARM). MethodsThis study is a cross-sectional, retrospective analysis from the prospectively collected, multicenter registry of the Pediatric Colorectal and Pelvic Learning Consortium (PCPLC). The 834 female patients with ARM who were enrolled in the registry by January 1, 2020 were included in this study. The relationship of VACTERL association with presence of a gynecologic anomaly was evaluated with Fisher's exact test. The relationship of each VACTERL system with presence of a gynecologic anomaly was assessed in patients with cloaca, rectovestibular fistulas and rectoperineal fistulas. P-values reported were based on a 2-sided alternative and considered significant when less than 0.05. Results834 patients with ARM underwent VACTERL screening and gynecologic evaluation with the three most common subtypes being cloaca (n = 215, 25.8%), rectovestibular fistula (n = 191, 22.9%) and rectoperineal fistula (n = 194, 23.3%). A total of 223 (26.7%) patients with ARM had gynecologic anomalies. VACTERL association was seen in 380 (45.6%) of patients with ARM. Gynecologic anomalies were present in 149 (39.1%) vs. 74 (16.3%) of subjects with vs. without VACTERL association (p < 0.001). VACTERL association did not significantly increase the risk of gynecologic anomaly in patients with cloaca and VACTERL (n = 88, 61.5%) vs. cloaca without VACTERL (n = 39, 54.2% p = 0.308). VACTERL association increased the risk of gynecologic anomalies in patients with rectoperineal fistulas (n = 7, 14.9% vs n = 9, 6.1% p = 0.014) and rectovestibular fistulas (n = 19, 31.1% vs. n = 13, 10.0% p<0.001). In patients with ARM who had a VACTERL association, when one of the associated anomalies was renal, there was an even higher risk of having an associated gynecologic anomaly (n = 138, 44.2% vs. n = 85, 16.3% p<0.001). ConclusionsVACTERL association in patients with rectoperineal and rectovestibular fistulas correlates with an increased risk of gynecologic anomalies. The presence of VACTERL associated findings, especially renal, should prompt a thorough evaluation of the gynecologic system. Level of evidenceIII. Retrospective comparative study

Intestinal malrotation with multiple congenital anomalies

Intestinal malrotation (IM) occurs secondary to abnormal midgut rotations. It is a common and often devastating cause of neonatal bowel obstruction. Associated anomalies in IM is high, up to 60%. We present a case malrotation without volvulus in a day 8 of life neonate associated with duodenal atresia (fenestrate web), annular pancreas, polysplenia, preduodenal portal vein and anorectal malformation (rectoperineal fistula). This case offered a unique presentation of malrotation with multiple anomalies, and highlights need of high index of suspicion of additional congenital anomalies when managing malrotation.

The cutback revisited — The posterior rectal advancement anoplasty for certain anorectal malformations with rectoperineal fistula

BackgroundThe repair of rectoperineal fistulae can pose a significant challenge to the pediatric surgeon given the proximity of the fistula to the urethra in males and vagina in females. In these children, a simple cutback procedure may leave the neoanus in a position anterior to the center of the sphincter, which theoretically could impair future continence. We devised an adaptation of the cutback anoplasty which we call the posterior rectal advancement anoplasty (PRAA) to treat patients with a rectoperineal fistula that is both narrow in lumen and located within, but at the anterior-most limit of the sphincter complex. Material and MethodsPatient selection, operative steps, and perioperative care of patients undergoing PRAA are detailed. Results10 children (6 males, 4 females) underwent PRAA. There were no vaginal wall or urethral injuries. At 6 months postoperatively, all patients were passing stool spontaneously. No patients required dilation of the anoplasty in the postoperative period and there were no anal strictures identified. ConclusionsA modification of the cutback anoplasty can be performed in patients with a perineal fistula and the distal fistula tract within the sphincter complex. We have demonstrated that this can be performed safely and obviates the need for an anterior rectal wall dissection, thus eliminating the risk of injury to urethra or vagina.Level of evidence: IV

Catheter knotting in a neonate

A 36-week preterm neonate with anal atresia and rectoperineal fistula was catheterized with a size 6F Foley’s catheter when she underwent anoplasty on the second day after birth. When the patient recovered from anesthesia, it was decided to remove the catheter. While the catheter was being removed, resistance was felt halfway through the procedure. Abdominal plain films revealed a catheter coiled in the pelvis. With copious lubricant injected into the bladder through the catheter and patient sedated, it was removed by manipulation alone using gentle traction (Figure 1). The infant had no bleeding at the urethral meatus and no obvious abnormality in urination during the 3-month of follow-up.

Anorectal Malformations Associated With Labioscrotal Fold Malformation and Perineal Mass in Pediatric Patients: Over a Decade of Experience.

Background: The triad of anorectal malformation (ARM), labioscrotal fold malformation, and perineal mass has rarely been reported before. The purpose of this study was to review our experience in these patients, describe their characteristics, and discuss the possible pathogenesis.Methods: Seven pediatric patients diagnosed with ARM associated with both labioscrotal fold malformation and perineal mass were included in this study. Medical records of these patients were retrospectively reviewed, and follow-up was held through telephone contact or outpatient service.Results: Among the seven patients were six females and one male, and the age at surgery was between 5.2 and 12.4 months. The ratio of lateral-type to mid-perineum-type labioscrotal fold malformation was 5:2. The ARM type was all rectoperineal fistula. Operation was excision of the malformation and perineal mass at the same time of anoplasty. The pathology was lipoma (three cases), fibroma (one case), lipofibroma (one case), angiolipoma (one case), and mesenchymal hamartoma (one case). All the seven patients had no wound complication, and during the follow-up period of 7–100 months after surgery, none of the seven patients suffered perineal mass recurrence. Bowel control was satisfactory in the follow-up period.Conclusions: There is a low incidence for the triad of ARM, labioscrotal fold malformation, and perineal mass. The nature of this disease is neoplastic overgrowth of intervening mesenchymal tissue, which impedes the continuity of caudal development into normal labioscrotal fold and affects the extension of urorectal septum, leading to ARM. Prognosis is mainly dependent on the type of ARM.

Development of a posterior sagittal anorectal surgical teaching model

BackgroundAn Anorectal Malformation (ARM) is a rare congenital malformation, which requires proper correction to ensure the best long-term prognosis. These procedures are relatively infrequent and complex, in which a structured approach is important. Therefore, training on an affordable model could be beneficial.MethodsA low-cost ARM model was developed. The base was reusable and the perineal body disposable. Both expert pediatric surgeons (Experts) and residents/fellows (Target group) were recruited for this study. After testing the model, they completed a questionnaire regarding the realism and didactic value of the model, using a 5-point Likert scale.ResultsForty-four participants were recruited (Target group n = 20, Experts n = 24). The model has high mean scores of 3.8–4.4 for the total group and even higher on several aspects by the Target group. The experts regarded the haptics and manipulation of the fistula less realistic than the Target group (3.7 versus 4.3, p = 0.021 and 4.2 versus 4.6, p = 0.047). It was considered to be a very good training tool (mean 4.3), without significant differences between the groups.ConclusionsThese results show general consensus that this model is a potent training tool for the component steps of the repair of an ARM with recto-perineal fistula by sagittal approach.

A review of adopted colorectal patients: a parent's perspective.

After treating many adopted patients with congenital colorectal conditions, our goal was to understand if parents were properly counseled about their child's medical needs before adoption. A comprehensive questionnaire was developed. Recruitment occurred by social media and colorectal database. 48 parents participated. Adopted children were primarily male (60%), internationally adopted (75%), and a median age of 2.5years (range newborn-13yo). While 96% of parents received medical records, 41% had incorrect/missing information. Most patients had an anorectal malformation (83%, Table 1), and a third had the primary pull-through prior to adoption (16). Nearly all required a surgical procedure after adoption (87%), including a redo pull-through (19%). Children were frequently incontinent of stool (83%) and urine (46%). In some families, the medical condition negatively affected the relationship between the parent and adopted child (12.5%), parent and other siblings (40.5%), and adopted child and other siblings (19%). 58% of parents state managing their child's medical condition was more difficult than anticipated. Family, friends, and the medical team was noted as the most helpful support systems. Table 1 Colorectal diagnoses Diagnosis Number of Participants Percentage (%) ARM (Unknown) 11 23 Cloaca 8 17 Cloacal Exstrophy 4 8 ARM No Fistula 3 6 Rectobulbar Fistula 3 6 Rectovestibular Fistula 3 6 Hirschsprung's Disease 3 6 Rectoprostatic Fistula 2 4 Spina Bifida 2 4 Rectoperineal Fistula 1 2 Rectovaginal Fistula 1 2 Rectobladderneck Fistula 1 2 Complex Malformation 1 2 Rectal Atresia 1 2 Rectal Stenosis 1 2 Idiopathic Constipation 1 2 Sacral Agenesis 1 2 Sacrococcygeal Teratoma 1 2 CONCLUSION: We strongly recommend putting support systems in place, obtaining as much medical information as possible, preparing for possible lifelong management, and consulting with a specialized colorectal team before adoption.