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Barron's band ligation is a simple, safe, and effective method for treating symptomatic second- and thirddegree hemorrhoids with negligible complications. Barron's band ligation is a treatment modality which can resolve hemorrhoidal disease with lower incidence of complications like severe pain, anal stenosis and intra operative bleeding. Data from all the patients was collected using Structured Proforma. Detailed clinical history was taken in all the patients with particular reference to bleeding per rectum, constipation, prolapse, painful defecation discharge per rectum, dietary habits, and family history of hemorrhoids. Detailed general physical exam was done in all. In Open Haemorrhoidectomy group, 4% had Stenosis and in Barron's band ligation group, 0% had Stenosis. There was no significant difference in Stenosis between two groups. Mean Duration of hospital stay in Open Haemorrhoidectomy group was 3.64±1.319 days in Barron's band ligation group was 1.48±0.510 days. There was significant difference in Duration of hospital stay between two groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rothmund–Thomson syndrome (RTS) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder characterized by a rash that progresses to poikiloderma. Other common features include sparse hair, eyelashes and eyebrows, short stature, variable skeletal abnormalities, dental defects, cataracts, hypogonadism, and an increased risk for cancer, especially osteosarcoma and skin cancer. RTS is caused by biallelic pathogenic variants in ANAPC1 (Type 1 RTS) or RECQL4 (Type 2 RTS). We present an African girl with Type 2 RTS caused by a nonsense variant and an intronic variant in RECQL4. The patient presented precocious puberty, which has not been previously reported in RTS and that was treated with a GnRH analog, and anal stenosis, which has only been reported once. This case highlights the need to consider deep intronic variants in patients with RTS when pathogenic variants in the coding regions and exon/intron boundaries are not identified and expands the phenotypic spectrum of this disorder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The optimal surgical treatment for anatomical anal stenosis (AS) remains to be determined. The aim of this study was to determine the rates of complications and recurrence after anoplasty for anatomical AS and, wherever feasible, compare the outcomes for the various techniques. Method: A PROSPERO‐registered systematic review was reported following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses guidelines. Medline, PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library of Systematic Review, Scopus and Web of Science were searched for articles published up to May 2021. Studies that assessed the outcomes of anoplasty in adult patients with anatomical AS were selected. The primary outcomes were complications and recurrence. The methodological quality of studies was appraised using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tools. Results: From the total of 2705 unique screened records, 151 were assessed for eligibility. Only 29 studies (two prospective) met the inclusion criteria, reporting data on 556 patients [mean age 53 (18–83) years, 46% female]. Previous history of surgery for haemorrhoidal disease accounted for three quarters of cases. A total of 14 types of anoplasty were found, with the Y–V flap being the most performed technique [27% of cases (n = 149)]. Complications frequently occurred, with a pooled prevalence of 10.2% (95% CI 3.9%–24.1%) after Y–V flap and 11.5% (5.3%–23.0%) after rhomboid/diamond flap. Patients undergoing house flap achieved better results in terms of clinical improvement, satisfaction and quality of life compared with Y–V flap and rhomboid/diamond flap. When considering only studies with at least 12 months of follow‐up, the pooled prevalence of recurrence was 4.7% (2.2%–9.8%), with significantly higher rates observed in the prospective versus retrospective series [pooled prevalence 18.9% (11.5%–29.5%) vs. 3.6% (1.7–7.8%), respectively; p < 0.001]. Conclusion: Both complications and recurrence were significantly lower after house flap compared with rhomboid/diamond and Y–V flap. Better designed multicentre studies with longer follow‐up are needed to confirm these findings. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42021239493. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Patients with anorectal malformations (ARMs) may have concurrent gynecologic abnormalities. As patients grow, they typically transition from pediatric subspeciality care and seek adult OB/GYN related services. We aimed to assess adult OB/GYN physicians' knowledge, competency, and comfort meeting the sexual and reproductive health care needs of patients with ARM., Methods: We performed a cross-sectional observational survey-based study of graduates from a single academic OB/GYN residency program from 2013-2022. Physicians were surveyed on experience, comfort, and challenges caring for patients with ARMs and given a knowledge assessment. Descriptive and comparative statistics between those who did and did not complete a pediatric and adolescent gynecology (PAG) rotation were generated., Results: There were 59 respondents (53.6%). Fewer than half (39.0%) report caring for a patient with ARM, an appendicovesicostomy (12.3%) or an appendicostomy (5.4%). Most felt uncomfortable (80.4%) or felt they lacked competence caring for these patients (81.8%). The majority (64.3%) felt ARMs should be discussed in residency. Only one physician (1.7%) answered all questions in the knowledge assessment correctly; 33.9% did not answer any question correctly. On subgroup analysis, more physicians completing a PAG rotation recalled learning about ARMs (83.3 vs 51.9%, p=0.03); however, there were no differences in experience, comfort, competence, or willingness to learn., Conclusion: OB/GYN providers report lack of knowledge and comfort in caring for patients with ARMs. Development of a standardized OB/GYN residency curriculum and education for practicing OB/GYN physicians is necessary to allow access to knowledgeable sexual and reproductive health for this patient population., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors report no conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024. Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Lateral internal sphincterotomy (LIS) remains a standard for chronic anal fissure even though other surgical techniques have shown high efficacy. Faecal incontinence is a well-documented complication of LIS. We devised modified open posterior internal sphincterotomy (m-OPIS) with sliding skin graft (SSG), which is a combined procedure of OPIS and anal advancement flap. The aim of this study is to evaluate m-OPIS + SSG. This was a retrospective, observational, single-arm study. m-OPIS + SSG was performed for chronic anal fissure and anal stenosis. m-OPIS involved incision of the internal sphincter muscle at the posterior midline until four fingers could be passed. The incision wound was closed by anastomosis of the anoderm and skin. Then, an arcuate skin incision was created and the skin graft was advanced into the anal canal. Follow-up was conducted by clinical consultation and telephone interview. Faecal continence was assessed by Cleveland Clinic Faecal Incontinence (CCFI) score. m-OPIS + SSG was performed in 143 patients. The mean patient age was 50 ± 16 years. The success and overall recurrence rates after m-OPIS + SSG were 99% and 0.7%, respectively, with a median follow-up period of 16.3 years. One patient developed incontinence with liquid stools once during the 6-month period. None of the other patients suffered permanent faecal incontinence postoperatively. The postoperative CCFI score was 0.5 ± 0.9. We consider m-OPIS + SSG as one of the efficacious options of procedure for chronic anal fissure and anal stenosis, owing to its high success rate, low recurrence rate and no postoperative complication of serious faecal incontinence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the past, an anteriorly located anus was often misdiagnosed and treated as an anorectal malformation (ARM) with a perineal fistula (PF). The paper aims to define the criteria for a normal anus, an anterior anus (AA) as an anatomic variant, and milder types of ARM such as congenital anal stenosis (CAS) and PF. An extensive literature search was performed by a working group of the ARM-Net Consortium concerning the subject "Normal Anus, AA, and mild ARM". A consensus on definitions, clinical characteristics, diagnostic management, and treatment modalities was established, and a diagnostic algorithm was proposed. The algorithm enables pediatricians, midwives, gynecologists, and surgeons to make a timely correct diagnosis of any abnormally looking anus and initiate further management if needed. Thus, the routine physical inspection of a newborn should include the inspection of the anus and define its position, relation to the external sphincter, and caliber. A correct diagnosis and use of the presented terminology will avoid misclassifications and allow the initiation of correct management. This will provide a reliable comparison of different therapeutic management and outcomes of these patient cohorts in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anal stenosis, which develops as a result of aggressive excisional hemorrhoidectomy, especially with the stoutly use of advanced technologies (LigaSure®, ultrasonic dissector, laser, etc.), has become common, causing significant deterioration in the patient's quality of life. Although non-surgical treatment is effective for mild anal stenosis, surgical reconstruction is unavoidable for moderate to severe anal stenosis that causes distressing, severe anal pain, and inability to defecate. The problem in anal stenosis, unlike anal fissure, is that the skin does not stretch as a result of chronic fibrosis due to surgery. Therefore, the application of lateral internal sphincterotomy does not provide satisfactory results in the treatment of anal stenosis. Surgical treatment methods are based on the use of flaps of different shapes and sizes to reconstruct the anal caliber and flexibility. This article aims to summarize most-used surgical techniques for anal stenosis regarding functional and surgical outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Colorectal anastomosis using the double stapling technique (DST) has become a standard procedure. However, DST is difficult to perform in patients with anal stenosis because a circular stapler cannot be inserted into the rectum through the anus. Thus, an alternative procedure is required for colorectal anastomosis. Case presentation A 78-year-old woman presented with bloody stool. Colonoscopy and computed tomography revealed advanced low rectal cancer without lymph node or distant metastasis. We initially planned to perform low anterior resection using a double stapling technique or transanal hand-sewn anastomosis, but this would have been too difficult due to anal stenosis and fibrosis caused by a Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy performed 20 years earlier. The patient had never experienced defecation problems and declined a stoma. Therefore, we inserted an anvil into the rectal stump and fixed it robotically with a purse-string suture followed by insertion of the shaft of the circular stapler from the sigmoidal side. In this way, side-to-end anastomosis was accomplished laparoscopically. The distance from the anus to the anastomosis was 5 cm. The patient was discharged with no anastomotic leakage. Robotic assistance proved extremely useful for low anterior resection with side-to-end anastomosis. Conclusion Performing side-to-end anastomosis with robotic assistance was extremely useful in this patient with rectal cancer and anal stenosis.

Anorectal strictures are a notoriously difficult to treat phenotype of perianal Crohn's disease. Quality of life is diminished due to ongoing pain, incontinence, difficulty with stool evacuation, and recurrent medical and surgical treatments. Medical therapy is aimed at treating luminal disease and mucosal ulceration to prevent worsening of fibrosis. Clinical examination and endoscopic intervention can be used for serial dilations of strictures. Unfortunately, despite optimal medical therapy and endoscopic intervention with serial anal dilations, surgery with intestinal diversion or proctocolectomy may be required as part of the treatment algorithm in a significant proportion of patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Congenital pouch colon (CPC) is a rare variant of anorectal malformation. In male patients, CPC communicates distally with the urogenital tract by a large fistula. The CPC cases which do not fulfill the criteria as mentioned in the classical description are reported along with the pertinent literature review. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study from January 2004 to December 2017 of male children with Type IV CPC. We evaluated clinical presentation, primary management, anatomical relationship, previous surgical intervention, definitive management, result, and outcome in terms of continence status on Templeton score. Results: Fifty-one children were included in the study among whom 36 children (Group 1) had a colovesical fistula and 15 children (Group 2) had no communication of the pouch with the genitourinary tract. In Group 2 children, the clinical presentations and management were varied: 4 underwent primary pull-through procedure, whereas 11 underwent staged procedure. Group 2 included three children in whom a narrow and thin-walled anal canal or anal canal with lower rectum was present, which was incorporated during the pull-through procedure. On continence assessment, only one child in Group 1 had “good” continence score compared to four children (three having anal canal) in Group 2. Conclusion: CPC Type IV can present without genitourinary tract communication (fistula), contrary to its emblematic description. Awareness about anatomical variations and adaptation of surgical technique accordingly is vital. The identification of the anal canal with or without the lower part of the rectum (even though apparently narrow and thin walled) and incorporation of this in bowel continuity lead to better outcomes in terms of continence.

Anal stenosis is a fibrous narrowing of the anal channel. It develops, in most cases, in the aftermath of proctologic surgical procedures with extensive anoderm excision or in the presence of chronic anal inflammation in patients with Crohn Disease. Diagnosis is essentially clinical. The most severe cases require anoplasty procedures with mucosal or anal flaps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Spigelian hernia (SH) is a rare entity characterized by a defect of the anterior abdominal wall located along the Spigelian line, it may be congenital or acquired.Association with other anomalies is worth reporting. Case Presentation: A 22-day-old male newborn was admitted with strangulated right inguinal hernia and operated on emergently. Clinical examination also revealed a Spigelian hernia in the left lower abdominal quadrant with bilateral cryptorchidism, associated with polydactyly of the small right finger and anal stenosis. At surgery, the SH contained a part of the small intestine and the ipsilateral undescended testis. Conclusion: Pediatric SH is rare, but its association with undescended ipsilateral testis is frequent. Other abnormalities can be concomitant to this association.

In the past, an anteriorly located anus was often misdiagnosed and treated as an anorectal malformation (ARM) with a perineal fistula (PF). The paper aims to define the criteria for a normal anus, an anterior anus (AA) as an anatomic variant, and milder types of ARM such as congenital anal stenosis (CAS) and PF. An extensive literature search was performed by a working group of the ARM-Net Consortium concerning the subject “Normal Anus, AA, and mild ARM”. A consensus on definitions, clinical characteristics, diagnostic management, and treatment modalities was established, and a diagnostic algorithm was proposed. The algorithm enables pediatricians, midwives, gynecologists, and surgeons to make a timely correct diagnosis of any abnormally looking anus and initiate further management if needed. Thus, the routine physical inspection of a newborn should include the inspection of the anus and define its position, relation to the external sphincter, and caliber. A correct diagnosis and use of the presented terminology will avoid misclassifications and allow the initiation of correct management. This will provide a reliable comparison of different therapeutic management and outcomes of these patient cohorts in the future.

Anal stenosis, which develops as a result of aggressive excisional hemorrhoidectomy, especially with the stoutly use of advanced technologies (LigaSure®, ultrasonic dissector, laser, etc.), has become common, causing significant deterioration in the patient’s quality of life. Although non-surgical treatment is effective for mild anal stenosis, surgical reconstruction is unavoidable for moderate to severe anal stenosis that causes distressing, severe anal pain, and inability to defecate. The problem in anal stenosis, unlike anal fissure, is that the skin does not stretch as a result of chronic fibrosis due to surgery. Therefore, the application of lateral internal sphincterotomy does not provide satisfactory results in the treatment of anal stenosis. Surgical treatment methods are based on the use of flaps of different shapes and sizes to reconstruct the anal caliber and flexibility. This article aims to summarize most-used surgical techniques for anal stenosis regarding functional and surgical outcomes.

Background: Colorectal anastomosis using the double stapling technique (DST) has become a standard procedure. However, DST is difficult to perform in patients with anal stenosis because a circular stapler cannot be inserted into the rectum through the anus. Thus, an alternative procedure is required for colorectal anastomosis. Case presentation: A 78-year-old woman presented with bloody stool. Colonoscopy and computed tomography revealed advanced low rectal cancer without lymph node or distant metastasis. We initially planned to perform low anterior resection using a double stapling technique or transanal hand-sewn anastomosis, but this would have been too difficult due to anal stenosis and fibrosis caused by a Milligan-Morgan hemorrhoidectomy performed 20 years earlier. The patient had never experienced defecation problems and declined a stoma. Therefore, we inserted an anvil into the rectal stump and fixed it robotically with a purse-string suture followed by insertion of the shaft of the circular stapler from the sigmoidal side. In this way, side-to-end anastomosis was accomplished laparoscopically. The distance from the anus to the anastomosis was 5 cm. The patient was discharged with no anastomotic leakage. Robotic assistance proved extremely useful for low anterior resection with side-to-end anastomosis. Conclusion: Performing side-to-end anastomosis with robotic assistance was extremely useful in this patient with rectal cancer and anal stenosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Anal stenosis develops due to anoderm scarring caused by any pathologic condition but usually secondary to surgical trauma. It is a preventable problem with negative social and medical implications for patients. In our study we intend to share our results with the use of advancement flaps in the treatment of anal stenosis. Method: The demographic and clinical characteristics of 10 patients who underwent surgery for anal stenosis due to hemorrhoidectomy between 2012 and 2018 were retrospectively reviewed. Results: Nine (90%) of the patients were male and 1 (10%) was female. Mean age of the patients was 54 (27-81) years. A total of 11 procedures were performed on 10 patients. Hemorrhoidectomy was the common etiology for all patients. Most common presenting complaints were painful defecation and difficulty passing stool in 5 patients (50%) each. In this study, 4 (40%) patients had V-Y, 3 (30%) had house, 2 (20%) had diamond, and 1 (10%) had dufourmental advancement flap. Mean length of hospital stay was 2 (1-3) days. One patient developed surgical site infection that was succesfully managed medically. Mean follow-up period was 39 (6-72) months. One patient had a subsequent contralateral diamond flap advancement because of persistent complaints and recurrence. No other recurrence was observed during follow-up. Conclusion: The best remedy for anal stenosis is prevention. Therefore, during common surgical procedures like hemorrhoidectomy, one must refrain from interventions that will result in anal stenosis. However, advancement flaps used in the treatment of moderate to severe anal stenosis are effective and offer commendable results.

Aim: Anal stenosis (AS) is a rare but disabling disorder that often represents a complication of anorectal surgery. The aim of our study was to assess the safety and functional outcome of a modified rhomboid flap (MRF) in the treatment of moderate and severe AS. Methods: Between January 2002 and September 2017, 50 consecutive patients with moderate and severe AS who underwent an MRF were retrospectively included. Anal continence (Cleveland Clinic Incontinence Score) and symptoms (Obstructed Defaecation Syndrome Score) were assessed preoperatively and postoperatively at 12 months. Furthermore, anal calibre was measured both preoperatively and postoperatively at 1, 6 and 12 months. Results: The mean follow‐up period was 97 ± 48.3 (33–180) months. The main aetiology was a previous excisional haemorrhoidectomy (N = 23; 46%). The mean preoperative anal calibre was 9.96 ± 2.68 (5–15) mm and there was a statistically significant improvement in all three periods (P < 0.0001) of postoperative evaluation (1, 6 and 12 months) with a mean difference, obtained comparing preoperative and 12 months anal calibre, of 14.1 ± 2.72 (P < 0.0001). Statistically significant improvement in both Cleveland Clinic Incontinence Score and Obstructed Defaecation Syndrome Score was observed in all patients at 12 months. The overall success rate was 96% (48/50 patients). Conclusion: The use of an MRF is a safe and suitable option for the treatment of moderate and severe AS. The possibility of tailoring the flap, based on the degree as well as the level of AS, is the key. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim Anal stenosis is an uncommon but troublesome complication of some anorectal operations, most often seen after surgical hemorrhoidectomy. Several methods are used to control this problem, ranging from medical to various surgical procedures, depending on the severity and extent of the stenosis. This study aims to evaluate diamond-shaped flap anoplasty with partial lateral internal sphincterotomy as a treatment option of iatrogenic severe anal stenosis. Study design A prospective study was conducted, which was approved by the ethics committee of the faculty, and the patients were consented before being included in this study. Place and duration of study The study was performed at the General Surgery Department, Al-Hussein Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, from January 2017 to December 2019. Patients and methods A total of 14 patients with post-surgical severe anal stenosis were included in this study. All patients were treated by diamond-shaped flap anoplasty with partial lateral internal sphincterotomy. After the procedure, every patient was evaluated in the first week, second week, first month, third month, sixth month, and the first year regarding pain, bleeding, wound infection, wound healing, and incontinence. Results A total of 14 patients (10 females and four males) with severe anal stenosis, with a mean age of 43.65 years, were included. Post-hemorroidectomy anal stenosis represented the main etiology in 13 (93%) patients, with post-defecation pain being the major complaint in all patients. Unilateral diamond-shaped flap anoplasty with partial lateral internal sphincterotomy was done in all patients. Post-operative pain ranged from moderate to mild over the first week, and anal spotting, which occurred in only two patients, stopped spontaneously in the first few days, and no flap loss occurred, but wound infection occurred in four (28%) patients, who were treated conservatively. Gas incontinence occurred in seven (50%) patients but improved over the first month. Complete satisfaction was achieved in 12 (86%) patients, and in the other two patients with recurrent symptoms, complete satisfaction was reached at the end of the follow-up period by having the same operation on the other side. Conclusion Diamond-shaped flap anoplasty with partial lateral internal sphincterotomy is a good treatment option for severe anal stenosis, being simple with low complication rate and high success rate and an easy way to perform the same operation on the other side to obtain complete patient satisfaction in failed cases with recurrent symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Congenital pouch colon (CPC) is a rare variant of anorectal malformation. In male patients, CPC communicates distally with the urogenital tract by a large fistula. The CPC cases which do not fulfill the criteria as mentioned in the classical description are reported along with the pertinent literature review. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective study from January 2004 to December 2017 of male children with Type IV CPC. We evaluated clinical presentation, primary management, anatomical relationship, previous surgical intervention, definitive management, result, and outcome in terms of continence status on Templeton score. Results: Fifty-one children were included in the study among whom 36 children (Group 1) had a colovesical fistula and 15 children (Group 2) had no communication of the pouch with the genitourinary tract. In Group 2 children, the clinical presentations and management were varied: 4 underwent primary pull-through procedure, whereas 11 underwent staged procedure. Group 2 included three children in whom a narrow and thin-walled anal canal or anal canal with lower rectum was present, which was incorporated during the pull-through procedure. On continence assessment, only one child in Group 1 had "good" continence score compared to four children (three having anal canal) in Group 2. Conclusion: CPC Type IV can present without genitourinary tract communication (fistula), contrary to its emblematic description. Awareness about anatomical variations and adaptation of surgical technique accordingly is vital. The identification of the anal canal with or without the lower part of the rectum (even though apparently narrow and thin walled) and incorporation of this in bowel continuity lead to better outcomes in terms of continence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on Currarino triad or Syndrome is a rare dominant autosomal clinical condition that develops from the failure of the separation of the caudal cell mass from the hindgut endoderm dorso-ventrally. Topics include the neurulation of the cloaca results in occult dysraphic malformations anomalies, the variable combination of these malformations gives rise to a spectrum of clinical presentations, and the condition is characterized by the triad of sacral agenesis and presacral mass.

To date, only 23 cases of Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome with duplex kidney have been reported. We present the first reported case of MRKH syndrome with solitary duplex kidney and anal stenosis. A 17-year-old Chinese girl presented with primary amenorrhea and fully developed secondary sex characteristics. Ultrasonography of the abdomen and pelvis revealed the absence of the right kidney, a left duplex kidney, and a primordial uterus. Surgery for anal stenosis was performed when she was 1 year of age. The patient had a normal 46, XX karyotype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In patients who have undergone a colonic resection with creation of an end colostomy, drainage of mucus secreted by the mucosa of the rectal stump may not be possible if there is an outlet obstruction. With an outlet obstruction, formation of a rectal mucocele occurs. A rectal mucocele is a rare condition which has only been reported sporadically in case reports. We present here the utility of an intersphincteric proctectomy for treatment of a rectal mucocele in a 47 year old male Crohn’s patient resulting in negligible post-operative or long-term morbidities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Robotic intersphincteric resection (ISR) has been introduced for sphincter-preservation in the treatment of low rectal cancer. However, many patients experience anorectal symptoms and defecatory dysfunction after ISR. This study aims to evaluate the anorectal complications that develop after ISR.Methods: The medical records of 108 patients who underwent robotic ISR at Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan between December 2011 and June 2016 were retrospectively reviewed. Photographic records of perineal conditions were documented at the following time intervals after surgery: 1 day, 2 weeks, 1, 2, 3 and 6 months. Clinical outcomes and treatment results were analysed.Results: Eighty-five patients (78.7%) developed edematous hemorrhoids after surgery. These subsided at a median of 56 days after operation (range 23-89 days). Forty-six patients (42.6%) were found to have anal stenosis requiring anal dilatation. Sixteen patients (14.8%) had neorectal mucosal prolapse, which was noted to occur at an average of 98 days after surgery (range 41-162 days). Multivariate analysis showed that the occurrence of edematous hemorrhoids was associated with operating time (P = 0.043), and male gender was a significant risk factor for anal stenosis (P = 0.007).Conclusions: This is the first study reporting on the clinical outcomes of anorectal status after robotic ISR. Further studies are needed to assess the long-term effects of these anorectal complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Anoperineal lesion (APL) occurrence is a significant event in the evolution of Crohn's disease (CD). Management should involve a multidisciplinary approach combining the knowledge of the gastroenterologist, the colorectal surgeon and the radiologist who have appropriate experience in this area. Given the low level of evidence of available medical and surgical strategies, the aim of this work was to establish a French expert consensus on management of anal Crohn's disease. These recommendations were led under the aegis of the Société Nationale Française de Colo-Proctologie (SNFCP). They report a consensus on the management of perianal Crohn's disease lesions, including fistulas, ulceration and anorectal stenosis and propose an appropriate treatment strategy, as well as sphincter-preserving and multidisciplinary management. Methodology: A panel of French gastroenterologists and colorectal surgeons with expertise in inflammatory bowel diseases reviewed the literature in order to provide practical management pathways for perianal CD. Analysis of the literature was made according to the recommendations of the Haute Autorité de Santé (HAS) to establish a level of proof for each publication and then to propose a rank of recommendation. When lack of factual data precluded ranking according to the HAS, proposals based on expert opinion were written. Therefore, once all the authors agreed on a consensual statement, it was then submitted to all the members of the SNFCP. As initial literature review stopped in December 2014, more recent European or international guidelines have been published since and were included in the analysis. Results: MRI is recommended for complex secondary lesions, particularly after failure of previous medical and/or surgical treatments. For severe anal ulceration in Crohn's disease, maximal medical treatment with anti-TNF agent is recommended. After prolonged drainage of simple anal fistula by a flexible elastic loop or loosely tied seton, and after obtaining luminal and perineal remission by immunosuppressive therapy and/or anti-TNF agents, the surgical treatment options to be discussed are simple seton removal or injection of the fistula tract with biological glue. After prolonged loose-seton drainage of the complex anal fistula in Crohn's disease, and after obtaining luminal and perineal remission with anti-TNF ± immunosuppressive therapy, surgical treatment options are simple removal of seton and rectal advancement flap. Colostomy is indicated as a last option for severe APL, possibly associated with a proctectomy if there is refractory rectal involvement after failure of other medical and surgical treatments. The evaluation of anorectal stenosis of Crohn's disease (ARSCD) requires a physical examination, sometimes under anesthesia, plus endoscopy with biopsies and MRI to describe the stenosis itself, to identify associated inflammatory, infectious or dysplastic lesions, and to search for injury or fibrosis of the sphincter. Therapeutic strategy for ARSCD requires medical-surgical cooperation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anal stenosis following hemorrhoids surgery is rare, and very distressing to the patients. It is graded according to its severity namely mild, moderate or severe. Majority of severe cases require surgery. The treatment is complex shown by the multiplicity of flaps and techniques described in the literature. This case report then reminds surgeons about the complications of hemorrhoidectomy and the complexity of their management. In addition, it challenges the surgeons about their practice on hemorrhoids. A 30-year-old male who presented with difficulty in passing stool with intermittent low abdominal pain for 4 weeks following a surgery for hemorrhoids. A House Advancement Flap was designed to match the transverse incisions and hence the width of the mucosal defect to be replaced. Any intra- or postoperative complications were noted and the patient was discharged on the second postoperative day from the hospital. Patient had no complaints in the post-discharge period. Overzealous hemorrhoidectomy is one of the primary causes of stenosis of anal canal. Other causes that have been reported include anorectal diseases, other anorectal surgeries and radiotherapy. Physical examination majorly leads to the diagnosis of anal stenosis. Its treatment is conservative in mild cases while in severe anal stenosis a House Advancement Flap is one of the possible surgical management options. Anal stenosis is a rare condition which requires good evaluation for its better management. Given its simplicity and successful results, a House Advancement Flap anoplasty is a reliable treatment of severe anal stenosis. • We report 30 years old patient presented with anal stenosis post hemorrhoidectomy. • A House advancement flap was used to cover the lost tissue. • The operation and the postoperative periods were uneventful. • House advancement flap anoplasty is a promising alternative for treating severe anal stenosis in resource limited centre. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: As stapled hemorrhoidopexy (SH) becomes more widely used, we see more patients with chronic postoperative anal pain after this surgery. Its presentation is variable and difficult to treat. The aim of our study was to investigate the impact of chronic anal pain after SH and whether tailored therapy was likely to achieve a favorable outcome. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 31 consecutive patients with chronic anal pain who had undergone SH in other hospitals and were referred to our institutions. Depending on the type of pain, unrelated (at rest) or related to defecation, two groups of patients were identified. Moreover, the mean distance of the staple line from the anal verge was calculated in both groups. Treatments included: topical nifedipine, local anesthetic and steroid infiltration, removal of retained staples, anal dilation, and scar excision with mucosal suturing. A visual analog scale (VAS) was used to compare pain at baseline, postoperatively, and in the follow-up. This mean difference of the VAS score between stages was always used as the main outcome measure, depending on the type of presentation, type of pain, and type of treatment. Treatment response was defined as a 50 % decrease of VAS from baseline. Results: There were 22 males and 9 females. The overall median age was 43 years (range 21-62 years). On digital examination and proctoscopy, 15 (48 %) patients had inflammatory changes, 19 (61 %) patients had staple retention, 8 (26 %) patients had anorectal stenosis, and 30 (97 %) patients had scar tissue. All patients had one or more of the following treatments listed from the least to most invasive: topical nifedipine in 12 (39 %) patients, anal dilation in 6 (19 %) patients, anesthetic and steroid infiltration in 18 (58 %) patients, removal of staples in 10 (32 %) patients, and scar excision in 18 (58 %) patients. The mean VAS score at baseline was 6.100, ± 1.953 SD, which dropped significantly after treatment to 1.733, ± 1.658 SD ( p < 0.001) and remained low at follow-up (1.741 ± SD 1.251; p < 0.743). In patients with pain at rest ( n = 20, 65 %), the symptoms improved in 19 (95 %) patients, while the VAS score decreased from 5.552 ± 2.115 SD to 1.457 ± 1.440 SD (95 % CI 3.217-4.964; p < 0.001). In patients with post-evacuation pain ( n = 11, 35 %), the symptoms improved in 11 (100 %) patients, while the VAS score decreased from 6.429 ± 1.835 SD to 1.891 ± 1.792 SD (95 % CI 3.784-5.269; p < 0.001). Rating of response based on presentation was 90.0 % (0.9/10) after treatment of staple retention, which led to a significant decrease in the mean VAS score from 6.304 ± 1.845 SD to 1.782 ± 1.731 SD (95 % CI 3.859-5.185; p < 0.001). Anal stenosis was successfully treated in 100.0 % ( n = 8/8) of cases with the mean VAS score dropping from 6.500 ± 1.309 SD to 2.125 ± 1.808 SD (95 % CI 2.831-5.919; p < 0.001). Anal inflammation improved in 60.0 % ( n = 9/15) of patients and the mean VAS score dropped from 6.006 ± 2.138 SD to 1.542 ± 1.457 SD (95 % CI 3.217-4.964; p < 0.001). The response after scar tissue treatment was 94 % ( n = 17/18) of patients with a mean VAS decreasing from 6.117 ± 2.006 SD to 1.712 ± 1.697 SD (95 % CI 3.812-4.974; p < 0.001). Success for topical nifedipine was between 13 and 25 % of patients depending on the clinical presentation. Anal dilation was successful in 75 % of patients, while Anesthetic and steroid infiltration in 23-54 % of patients depending on the clinical presentation. Staple removal was successful in 77 % of patients, and scar excision with mucosal suturing in 94 % of patients. Conclusions: Our retrospective study suggests that most patients with chronic anal pain after SH may be cured with treatment by applying a stepwise approach from the least to the most invasive treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose and methods: The anal sinuses, small furrows above the pectinate line, sometimes form perianal abscesses in adults. We examined the pattern of fetal growth of the anal sinus and sphincters using 22 mid-term (8-18 weeks) and 6 late-stage (30-38 weeks) fetuses. Results: In mid-term fetuses, the external and internal sphincters gradually increased in thickness, depending on specimen size (from 0.2 to 1.5 mm), whereas the anteroposterior diameter of the anal canal at the epithelial junction was relatively stable (0.5-1.0 mm) irrespective of specimen size. Anal canal diameter increased less than twofold between mid-term and late-stage fetuses, from 0.5-1.0 to almost 2 mm, whereas sphincter thickness increased over tenfold, from 0.2-1.5 to almost 3.5 mm. The anal sinus often showed balloon-like enlargement when the sphincter muscle bundles were tightly packed in mid-term, but not in late-stage fetuses. Conclusions: Large concentric mechanical stress from the sphincters in late-stage fetuses apparently prevented the anal sinus from expanding in a balloon-like manner. Conversely, to avoid anal stenosis, the growing sinuses maintained a luminal space of the anal canal in response to stress from rapidly growing sphincters. The inferiorly extending sinus usually provided temporal double canals separated by a thick column. In the presence of double lumens, anal canal duplication is likely to develop without any abnormalities of the anal epithelium and sphincters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE: Anal stenosis is a rare, incapacitating, and challenging condition, occurring mainly after hemorrhoidectomy, for which several surgical techniques have been devised. The purpose of this study was to describe early and late (1 year) results of 77 anoplasty operations performed in the Colorectal Unit of our institution. METHODS: From 1977 to 2002, 77 patients with moderate to severe anal stenosis underwent surgery using two sliding graft techniques: 58 underwent Sarner's operation and 19 underwent Musiari's technique. Bilateral flaps were used in 7 patients. RESULTS: Early morbidity was due to pruritus occurring in 2 patients, urinary infection in 1, and temporary incontinence in 1 patient. One patient needed early reoperation following suture line dehiscence. Late results (1 year) were classified as good in 67 cases (87%). There was no reoperation due to recurrence of stenosis. CONCLUSION: The ease of performance, good functional results, and lack of severe complications show that Sarner's and Musiari's flap advancement techniques are effective and safe methods for surgical correction of anal stenosis, particularly when cutaneous fibrosis plays a major role in its etiology.OBJETIVO: A estenose anal é uma condição rara, incapacitante e desafiadora que ocorre principalmente após hemorroidectomia, para a qual diversas técnicas cirúrgicas reparadoras foram desenvolvidas. O objetivo deste estudo é descrever os resultados precoces e tardios (um ano) de 77 anoplastias realizadas no Serviço de Cirurgia Colorretal. MÉTODOS: No período de 1977 a 2002, 77 pacientes com estenose anal moderada ou grave foram operados, utilizando-se duas técnicas diferentes de avanço de retalho: 58 foram submetidos à técnica de Sarner e 18 submetidos à Técnica de Musiari. Avanços bilaterais foram utilizados em sete pacientes. RESULTADOS: As complicações precoces foram: prurido em dois pacientes, infecção urinária em um paciente e incontinência fecal temporária em outro. Um paciente necessitou reoperação precoce por deiscência de linha de sutura. Os resultados tardios foram classificados como bons em 67 (87%). Não houve reoperação por recorrência de estenose. CONCLUSÃO: A facilidade técnica, os bons resultados funcionais e a ausência de complicações graves demonstraram que as técnicas de avanço de retalho de Sarner e Musiari são efetivas e seguras para correção de estenose anal, particularmente nos casos em que a fibrose cutânea é o principal fator etiológico.

Introduction: anorectal malformations (ARM) include a variety of congenital defects of the anus, anal canal and rectum, ranging from the simple anal membrane to very complex anomalies which are very often associated with other congenital anomalies. Posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP) is widely accepted as standard treatment procedure for all types of ARM. The aim of this study was to analyze the outcome of the treatment of patients with high type anorectal malformations including complications, voluntary bowel movements, postoperative constipation and soiling. Materials and methods: this study focused on 43 patients with high and intermediate anorectal malformations diagnosed and treated at our clinic in the period from 2005 to 2014 in the framework of a combined retrospective and prospective analysis of a total of 76 patients with anorectal malformations. 43 patients were analyzed in various aspects, including the type of defects, surgical techniques used for their treatment, functional outcome of the treatment, complications and mortality rate. Results: out of 43 patients analyzed in this study 32 were male (74.42%) and 11 female (25.58%). The most common malformations related to those without fistula in 17 patients (39.53%), followed by rectourethral fistula in 14 patients (32.56%) and vestibular fistula in 6 patients (13.95%), classified as intermediate defects. There was one case with rectal atresia (2.33%) and one case with cloacal malformation (2.33%). 1 patient died prior to any surgical treatment, 2 patients with intermediate malformations (4.65%) were treated in one stage without colostomy while in 40 patients (93.02%) colostomy was performed after birth. PSARP was the procedure of choice in 96.77% of patients to whom the surgical treatment was completed. Constipation was present in 28.13% of all patients. In patients over 3 years of age voluntary bowel movements were present in 51.72% while totally incontinent was present in 13.79%. Mortality rate was 13.95% (N=6). Conclusion: treatment of ARMs is a challenging problem, especially those of high type, because of a high percentage of children that suffer from fecal incontinence which may happen even after an excellent surgical treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Organic or functional anal canal stenoses are uncommon conditions that occur in the majority of cases as a consequence of anal diseases. A proper assessment is fundamental for decision making; however, proctological examination and endoanal ultrasound are often unfeasible or very difficult to perform even under local or general anesthesia. We therefore began to use 3D transperineal ultrasound to assess patients. The aim of this study was to compare the results of evacuation proctography and 3D transperineal ultrasound in patients with severe anal canal stenosis. Methods: Four consecutive patients with high-grade anal canal stenosis were evaluated using both proctography and 3D transperineal ultrasound with a micro-convex transducer between March and June 2011. Results: In all cases, 3D transperineal ultrasound provided detailed information on the length and level of stenosis and on the integrity of the anal sphincters. Conclusions: Our preliminary experience suggests that 3D transperineal ultrasound makes it possible to plan optimal surgical treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Anorectoplasty and pull-through procedure can be performed with extensive mobilization or tension anastomosis, which can compromise bowel blood perfusion. We aimed to analyze the hypoxia biomarker values and histopathological findings in both conditions to correlate the occurrence of anal stenosis and defecation disorders in experimental models., Methods: We created anorectal reconstruction models with impaired vascularization of the anorectum (group I) and tension anastomosis (group II) in rats. A third group of animals underwent sham operation (group III) and another as controls (group IV). Hypoxia biomarker values were assessed in all groups. The histopathological changes on the postoperative days 3 and 35, anal stenosis and defecation disorders on day 35 were compared., Results: Hypoxia biomarker values confirmed postoperative ischemia in groups I-III compared to control. Group I and II rats had a similarly pronounced ischemia with histopathologic changes in the anorectum on the postoperative day 3 and accompanied by severe fibrosis on day 35. Compared to the sham operation, both groups showed defecation disorders with significant anal stenoses., Conclusion: Extensive rectal mobilization to about the same extent as tension anastomosis has a major impact on postoperative rectal ischemia, resulting in severe fibrotic changes in the anorectum and defecation disorders in the long term., (© 2022. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.)

Introduction We aim to compare the anastomotic stricture and enterocolitis rates between groups who either had or did not have anal dilatations (AD or NAD) prescribed routinely post pull-through surgery for Hirschsprung disease (HD); by thismeans, we will evaluate the benefit of routine dilatations. Methods A retrospective review of the records of all children operated on for HD between 1997 and 2010 was performed. Associated Down syndrome and total colonic aganglionosis were excluded. Two cohorts were identified; those who had anal dilatation prescribed routinely (AD) and those who did not (NAD). In the latter group, if an anastomotic stricture was subsequently diagnosed, anal dilatations were initiated. The anastomotic stricture and enterocolitis rates between groups were compared. Significance was set at p <0.05. Results There were 73 children thatmet the inclusion criteria (30 AD and 43 NAD). The NAD group had the longer mean follow-up period of 91 versus 59 months (p 1/4 0.026); however, follow-up duration was unrelated to the anastomotic stricture rates (p 1/4 0.575) and enterocolitis rates (p 1/4 0.150). The anastomotic stricture rates were 13% (n 1/4 4) versus 14% (n 1/4 6) (p 1/4 1.000) for the AD and NAD groups, respectively (relative risk [95% confidence interval] RR [95% CI], 0.95 [0.29 to 3.09]; p 1/4 0.94). The mean duration between surgery and stricture occurrence was 348 versus 74 days for the AD and NAD groups, respectively. The enterocolitis rates were 23% (n 1/4 7) versus 28% (n 1/4 12) (p 1/4 0.788) for the AD and NAD groups, respectively (RR [95% CI], 0.84 [0.37 to 1.87]; p 1/4 0.66). Conclusion We have not shown a reduced risk of developing anastomotic strictures or enterocolitis if anal dilatations are prescribed routinely. However, when routine dilatations were prescribed, predominantly late onset strictures of perhaps a different etiology occurred. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]