Anorectal malformations in children

Abstract

During the last year, significant advances have been reported in the literature in the field of anorectal malformations. We may be learning more significant embryologic facts from multiviewpoint, three-dimensional analysis of anorectal embryology, which may have implications in prevention of these defects. The risk of children with anorectal malformations having an associated urologic defect has been well known for a long time. However, the new publications are putting special emphasis on the frequency of these associated defects with each specific type of anorectal defect such as cloacas, in which the urologic evaluation represents a real emergency. Early suspicion and treatment will avoid dangerous diagnostic delays. The advent of magnetic resonance imaging allows the detection and management of associated neurospinal defects, as well as presacral masses. Recent further evidence indicates that most patients with these defects have an internal sphincter that must be preserved, which hopefully will contribute to better bowel function.