Anorectal Malformation
Anorectal Malformation
Anorectal Malformation
Epidemiology
• Anorectal malformation occurs at 1 from 4000-5000 new births.
• The frequency in boys is higher than for girls.
Etiology
• The etiology of such malformations remains unclear and is likely
multifactorial.
• There appears to be a low rate of association in families, but some
appear to have an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern with a
high incidence, as much as 1 in 100
• Some studies demonstrated several mutations of genes. Few
syndromes with autosomal dominant mode of inheritance such as
Townes-Broks syndrome, Currarino's syndrome, and Pallister-Hall
syndrome are associated with ARM.
Risks Factors
Anorectal malformation may be seen with some genetic syndromes or
congenital problems that are present at birth which includes:
• VACTERL association. This disorder includes problems with the spine,
anus, heart, trachea, esophagus, kidneys, and arms and legs.
• Digestive system problems
• Urinary tract problems
• Spinal problems
• Down syndrome
• Townes-Brocks syndrome. This syndrome includes problems with the
anus, kidneys, ears, and arms and legs.
Symptoms
Anorectal malformations cause problems with how a child has a bowel
movement. Most anorectal malformations are found before a newborn
leaves the hospital. If the problem is not found in the hospital,
symptoms may include:
• Lack of stool
• Stool coming from the vagina
• Urine coming from the anus
• Trouble having a bowel movement, or constipation
Complications
• Narrow anal passage.
Children may have trouble passing a bowel movement. This causes
constipation and possibly mild pain.
• Membrane over the anal opening.
• Rectum is not connected to the anus, but there is a fistula. Stool will
leave body through the fistula instead of the anus. This can cause
infections.
• Rectum is not connected to the anus, and there is no fistula. There is
no way for stool to leave the intestine. If this is not treated, it can be
fatal.
Diagnosis
• Abdominal X-rays. This test makes images of internal tissues, bones, and
organs.
• Abdominal ultrasound. This test uses high-frequency sound waves and a
computer to create images of blood vessels, tissues, and organs.
Ultrasounds are used to see internal organs and to check blood flow
through different vessels.
• CT scan. This test uses X-rays and a computer to make images of any part of
the body. This includes the bones, muscles, fat, and organs. A CT scan is
more detailed than a general X-ray. Older children may have a general X-ray.
• MRI. This test uses a magnetic field and radio waves to make detailed
images of organs and structures in the body. Older children may have this
test.
• Lower GI or gastrointestinal series, also called a barium enema. This
test checks the rectum, the large intestine, and the lower part of the
small intestine. A metallic, chalky fluid called barium is put into the
rectum as an enema. It coats the inside of organs so that they will
show up on an X-ray. An X-ray of the belly or abdomen shows
narrowed areas called strictures, blockages, and other problems.
• Upper GI or gastrointestinal series, also called barium swallow. This
test checks the organs of the upper part of the digestive system. That
includes the food pipe or esophagus, the stomach, and the first
section of the small intestine, called the duodenum. A metallic, chalky
fluid called barium is swallowed. It coats the inside of organs so that
they will show up on an X-ray. Then X-rays are taken to check the
digestive organs.
Treatment
• Treatment will depend on child’s symptoms, age, and general health. It will also
depend on how severe the condition is.
• Most babies with anorectal malformation will need to have surgery to correct
the problem. The type and number of surgeries your child needs will vary. It
depends on the type of problem your child has. These problems include the
following:
oNarrow anal passage
Surgery may not be needed. A procedure known as anal dilation may be done
from time to time. This helps to stretch the anal muscles so stool can pass
through.
oAnal membrane
Surgery is done to remove the membrane. Anal dilations may need to be done to
help with any narrowing of the anal passage.
oLack of rectal or anal connection, with or without a fistula