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To study delayed presentation of ARMs, management and its effect on surgical and functional complications.It is a retrospective study from March 2015 to March 2020. All the patients satisfying the criteria of delayed ARMs, i.e., presenting 7 days after birth were included. Information regarding type of ARM, mode of presentation, time of presentation, associated anomalies, management strategy, postoperative complications and functional outcome was noted. Minimum follow-up period was 6 months.Out of 102 patients with ARM, 44 patients presented late. Among the 44 patients, 9 were males and 35 were females. Associated comorbidities observed are low birth weight (n = 9) and preterm (n = 13). Associated anomalies observed were cardiac (n = 18), renal (n = 8), other gastrointestinal (n = 5) and skeletal (n = 1). (1) Male: rectourethral fistula-2 (staged repair), anal stenosis-3 (anoplasty) and anocutaneous fistula-4 (anoplasty). (2) Female: vestibular fistula: 15 (6 primary definitive surgery + 9 staged repair), ectopic anus: 3 (staged repair), anal stenosis: 2 (anoplasty), urogenital sinus: 4 (staged repair), H-type ARM: 8 (staged repair) and persistent cloaca: 3 (staged repair). Primary repair was done in 15 patients (34%), and staged repair was done in 29 patients (65.9%). Anoplasty was done in 9 patients, ASARP (modified tsuchida's procedure) in 8 patients and PSARP in 27 patients. Postoperative complications observed were constipation (n = 21, 47.7%), fecal incontinence (n = 12, 27.27%) with perianal excoriation in 2 patients, anal stenosis (n = 3, 6.8%) and rectal mucosal prolapse (n = 2, 4.5%) CONCLUSION: Delayed presentation of ARMs is not uncommon and is more common in females. Management is almost similar to those who present early. Those who present with chronic constipation and megarectum require staged repair. Complications were more frequent with delayed presentation. Hence, every newborn should have careful examination of perineum and screened for ARM to avoid possible morbidity and mortality.

This study reviewed the literature on the postoperative complications following laparoscopic-assisted anorectoplasty (LAARP).A Medline and Embase search was performed for the terms "anorectal malformation" (ARM) "laparoscopic" and "complication". Articles without English full text, review articles, systematic reviews, case reports, case series 5 cases and duplicate articles were excluded. Two reviewers independently performed the eligibility assessment and data extraction. Data were collected for type of malformation, surgical technique, postoperative complications and functional outcomes RESULTS: The search retrieved 108 articles, of which 38 met the inclusion criteria and offered 1058 patients for analysis. Rectoprostatic and rectobladder neck fistula were the most common types of ARM in males, whereas it was the common cloaca in females. Analysis of complications demonstrated rectal prolapse (n = 149; 14.08%) being the most prominent, followed by urethral diverticulum (n = 32; 3.02%), anal stenosis (n = 37; 3.49%), recurrent fistula (n = 7; 0.66%) and rectal stricture (n = 4; 0.37%). Krickenbeck classification was used for functional assessment in 638 patients, with fecal soiling grade 2 or 2 in 79. Data on functional outcome specific to the type of malformation was available for 246 patients: fecal soiling grade 2 or 2 in 15/94 (15.95%) with rectoprostatic fistula, 26/73 (35.61%) with rectobladder neck fistula, 6/47 (12.76%) with common cloaca, and 1/22 (4.54%) with no fistula.Rectal prolapse, posterior urethral diverticulum and anal stenosis are the most common complications after LAARP. Inconsistent and non-uniform functional assessment and non-availability of information about the sacrum and spine make it difficult to analyze the functional outcome following LAARP.

Milligan-Morgan haemorrhoidectomy (MMH) is still regarded as the standard excisional haemorrhoid procedure. In our centre, prophylactic lateral internal sphincterotomy (LIS) has been routinely performed simultaneously with MMH due to increased incidence of concurrent chronic anal fissure (CAF). We aimed to review our practice, the safety and feasibility of routine MMH+LIS among patients with or without CAF. A prospective observational study was conducted to examine the outcome of MMH + LIS in Kassala, Sudan, from 2015 to 2018. The short-term outcomes of patients undergoing MMH+LIS were compared between patients with or without CAF. There were 252 patients included in the study, with the median age of 33 (ranged 13–80), and 146 (57.94%) were male patients. Of these, 205 patients (81.3%) had third-degree prolapsed haemorrhoids, and 47 patients (18.7%) had fourth-degree prolapsed haemorrhoids, with 73 (29%) patients had a concurrent chronic anal fissure. There were no significant difference (p > 0.05) between the comparing groups with regard to the complications occurred, which were post-operative bleeding (n = 4, 1.6%), anal stenosis (n = 5, 1.98%), faecal incontinence (n = 2, 0.79%), chronic anal pain (n = 5, 1.98%), chronic anal discharge (n = 3, 1.19%), pruritus ani (n = 4, 1.58%) and obstructed defaecation symptoms (n = 4, 1.58%). The overall complication rates were 16/252 (6.3%). Patients without pre-existing CAF were significantly associated with increased post-operative pain (p

Doppler-guided transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization (THD) was considered a less invasive and innovative method to treat hemorrhoidal disease, but it may impact the anal area during dearterialization and mucopexy. Thus, this study aimed to assess any changes in anorectal manometry of grade III and IV hemorrhoidal patients following THD treatment. This prospective observational study was conducted with patients who had grades III and IV hemorrhoidal disease. The patients were treated using THD at the Department of Surgery in the National Hospital of Traditional Medicine (Hanoi, Vietnam) between June 2012 and December 2013. Anorectal manometry was performed prior to THD and again between 6 and 12 months following the procedure. A total of 40 patients were enrolled in the study, including 32 with grade III hemorrhoids and 8 with grade IV hemorrhoids. The proportion of male patients (65%) was higher than that of female patients (35%), and the majority of patients (82.5%) were > 40 years old. The mean duration of symptoms prior to treatment was 12.3 years. The mean length of the anal sphincter was unchanged before and after THD (3.64 ± 0.40 cm prior to treatment vs. 3.66 ± 0.48 cm following treatment; p = 0.57). Significant differences in treatment-related changes were detected for all anorectal manometric measurements except maximum squeezing pressure (p

This study aimed to investigate the complications and recurrence rates of the different surgical procedures implemented in recent years for the treatment of grade III and IV hemorrhoids using a network meta-analysis approach. A systematic literature search was conducted for randomized clinical trials (RCTs) published from January 2013 to August 2018, via PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, and Web of Science. Data related to anal stenosis, fecal incontinence, hemorrhoids thrombosis, and recurrence rates were extracted from the included studies, which were selected based on associations with surgical procedures for grade III and IV hemorrhoids. A network meta-analysis was conducted by using the automated software Aggregate Data Drug Information System (ADDIS) 1.16.8 to evaluate and rank the safety and efficacy of the different surgical methods. Twenty-one studies with 2799 participants involving nine surgical procedures for grade III and IV hemorrhoids were ultimately analyzed. Transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization (THD) and stapled hemorrhoidectomy (SH) exhibited fewer anal stenosis than open hemorrhoidectomy (OH) and Harmonic scalpel (Harmonic). SH presented the highest fecal incontinence rates. OH and Harmonic presented lower hemorrhoids thrombosis than SH and THD. Importantly, SH and THD exhibited the highest recurrence rates, when compared with the other hemorrhoidectomy surgical procedures. In summary, THD and SH were found to be associated with more complications and higher recurrence rates. In addition, the use of OH treatments resulted in less hemorrhoids thrombosis rate but higher recurrence rate. The use of Harmonic resulted in higher anal stenosis rate but lower recurrence rate.

The aim of this study is to compare the results and complications of one- and three-stage repairs in females with vestibular fistula (VF) and make contribution to the discussion of whether the disadvantages outweigh the protective effect of a colostomy from wound infection and wound dehiscence following posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP). Patients with a diagnosis of VF who underwent PSARP between October 2009 and November 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. The patients were divided into two groups: Group 1—patients treated by one-stage procedure (n = 30); Group 2—patients treated by three-stage procedure (n = 16). There were no statistically significant differences between the groups with respect to wound infection, recurrence of fistula and rectal mucosal prolapse. Minor wound dehiscence occurred slightly more common in Group 1, even if p value is not significant. No wound dehiscence has been observed since we switched to the protocol of keeping the child nil per oral for 5 postoperative days and loperamide (0.1 mg/kg) administration for 7 postoperative days. The mean time before resuming oral intake was 2.87 ± 1.7 and 1.19 ± 0.4 days in Group 1 and Group 2, respectively (p = 0.001). None developed major wound disruption or anal stenosis in either group. There were no statistical differences between the groups in terms of voluntary bowel movements, soiling and constipation. PSARP performed without a protective colostomy in patients with VF has low morbidity, good continence rates and obvious advantages for both the patients and their parents.

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. 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. 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). 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.

Background Traumatic avulsion injuries to the anus, although uncommon, can result in serious complications and even death. Management of anal avulsion injuries remains controversial and challenging. This study aimed to investigate the clinical effects of treating large skin and subcutaneous tissue avulsion injuries in the perianal, sacral, and perineal regions with island flaps or skin graft combined with vacuum assisted closure. Methods Island flaps or skin graft combined with vacuum assisted closure, diverting ileostomy, the rectum packed with double-lumen tubes around Vaseline gauze, negative pressure drainage with continuous distal washing, wounds with skin grafting as well as specialized treatment were performed. Results The injuries healed in all patients. Six cases had incomplete perianal avulsion without wound infection. Wound infection was seen in four cases with annular perianal avulsion and was controlled, and the separated prowl lacuna was closed. The survival rate in 10 patients who underwent skin grafting was higher than 90%. No anal stenosis was observed after surgery, and ileostomy closure was performed at 3 months (six cases) and 6 months (four cases) after surgery, respectively. Conclusions Covering a wound with an island flap or skin graft combined with vacuum assisted closure is successful in solving technical problems, protects the function of the anus and rapidly seals the wound at the same time.

Pain following hemorrhoidectomy is a distressing sequel to the procedure. Various methods have been used to alleviate post-hemorrhoidectomy pain; among these methods is the lateral internal sphincterotomy (LIS). This review aimed to analyze all studies that evaluated the impact of LIS on the outcome of excisional hemorrhoidectomy. Seventeen studies were included after organized search of the literature using electronic databases including PubMed/Medline and EMBASE. The studies included comprised 2180 patients with median age of 44 years. Variables selected for the review comprised patients’ characteristics, postoperative pain assessment, analgesic consumption, and complications as fecal incontinence (FI), urinary retention, and anal stenosis. Overall, 933 (42.7 %) patients underwent LIS. Almost all studies assessing postoperative pain reported lower pain scores and less need for postoperative analgesia among patients who underwent LIS in comparison with patients who did not have LIS. Eleven of 13 studies that assessed continence state postoperatively reported higher rates of FI among patients who had LIS with a median rate of 7.7 % versus 1.25 % for patients who did not have LIS. Incidence of urinary retention after LIS ranged from 0 to 60 %. Anal stenosis occurred in 0–14.5 % of patients who had LIS versus 0–36.4 % in patients without LIS. LIS effectively reduced postoperative pain and need for analgesics following excisional hemorrhoidectomy. LIS also managed to decrease incidence of postoperative urinary retention and anal stenosis significantly. The negative aspect of adding LIS to excisional hemorrhoidectomy was developing minor FI after surgery which was temporary in duration.

Rectal atresia and anal stenosis are rare forms of anorectal malformations. The aim of the definitive surgical repair in such cases is to preserve the anal canal, the dentate line, and the sphincter complex. We present a case of rectal atresia and anal stenosis to demonstrate the differences in the operative repair. The techniques described leave the anterior wall of the very distal anal canal untouched in both rectal stenosis and anal atresia; however, the dissection of the rectum differs. The atretic rectum in rectal atresia is mobilized and sutured to the anal canal circumferentially. In anal stenosis, the posterior rectum is mobilized in the form of rectal advancement, and the posterior 180° is anastomosed directly to the skin (as in a standard PSARP) with preservation of the anal canal as the anterior 180° of the final anoplasty. These patients have an excellent prognosis for bowel control and fecal continence, and therefore, complete mobilization and resection of the anal canal must be avoided.

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. 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. 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.

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.

The Aim of this study is to evaluate the feasibility and analyze the functional outcome of laparoscopic intersphincteric resection (LISR) in ultra-low rectal cancer. The preservation of anal function following curative operations for low rectal cancer is becoming increasingly important. Laparoscopic intersphincteric resection of the rectum is the utmost sphincter saving operation for rectal cancer. The rectum is laparoscopically resected along with the internal anal sphincter, providing an adequate distal margin for even the ultra-low tumours of the rectum. Between 2008 and 2012, nine patients, 2 with a T3 tumour that received preoperative chemoradiotherapy and 7 patients with a non-fixed T2 rectal adenocarcinoma, underwent LISR by a single surgeon. Preoperative tumour staging included endorectal ultrasonography (ERUS) and pelvic MRI. Patients with multiple distant metastases, tumour invasion into adjacent organs and invasion into the external anal sphincter and/or levator ani, were excluded from LISR. Covering ileostomy in seven patients was reversed with a satisfactory functional outcome in each case. All patients underwent LISR with curative intent. There was no postoperative mortality. Complications included anal stenosis, prolapse of the neorectum and pelvic hematoma. The overall quality of life and functional outcome were deemed satisfactory. In selected patients, intersphincteric rectal resection may provide an acceptable functional outcome for ultra-low rectal cancer patients, without a permanent stoma.

This prospective study focused on patients with rectal cancer who underwent transanal specimen extraction after laparoscopic anterior resection with total mesorectal excision and specifically aims to investigate whether the transanal approach can be accepted as a safe and effective method for extracting the malignant specimen from the peritoneal cavity. A prospectively designed database of a consecutive series of patients undergoing laparoscopic low anterior resection for rectal malignancy with various tumor–node–metastasis (TNM) classifications from April 1991 to May 2011 at the Texas Endosurgery Institute was analyzed. Patient selection for transanal specimen extraction and intracorporeal anastomosis was made on the basis of size of the pathology and distance of rectal lesions from the anal verge. 179 anterior resections were completed laparoscopically with intracorporeal anastomosis and transanal specimen extraction. The operating time for the entire procedures including resection, anastomosis, and specimen extraction was 170.9 ± 51.2 min, blood loss during the procedures was 86.4 ± 37.7 ml, and distance of the lower edge of the lesion from the anal verge was measured to be 11.3 ± 7.3 cm. Postoperatively, three patients developed anastomotic leakage with a leak rate of 1.7 %, and the overall major complication rate after the procedures was 5.0 %. Length of hospital stay was 6.9 ± 2.8 days. Two-year follow-up showed development of anal stenosis in three patients (2.0 %) and erectile dysfunction in one patient (0.36 %) after surgery. Finally, 9 out of 179 patients who underwent laparoscopic anterior resection with transanal specimen extraction were confirmed to have cancer recurrence, with 2-year local recurrence rate of 5.0 %. Transanal specimen extraction in laparoscopic rectal cancer resection is a safe and effective approach with comparable local cancer recurrence rate and postoperative complication rates, suggesting it can be integrated into laparoscopic anterior resection for rectal cancer.

Berichtet wird uber die seltene Indikation zur analplastischen Rekonstruktion nach Ferguson bei einem jungen, HIV-infizierten Mann mit narbig verschlossenem Analkanal nach Operation und Bestrahlung eines analen Burkitt-Lymphoms. Die operative Technik der Ferguson-Plastik und die Ergebnisse in der Literatur werden beschrieben.

A retrospective review of 28 patients who had “house flap” anoplasty was carried out to evaluate the therapeutic effectiveness of the procedure. House flap anoplasty was performed at Istanbul University Cerrahpasa Medical School, General Surgery Department, in 28 patients over 4 years. Indications were chronic anal fissure, anal stenosis, high transsphincteric fistula, low rectovaginal fistula, anal neoplasia, and obstetric third-degree perineal tear and incontinence. After rectangular excision of the anal or perianal lesion, the “walls” and “roof” of the house flap were incised to the depth of ischiorectal fat. The “base” of this house-shaped flap was then fixed to the top of the excised area. Median postoperative hospital stay was 4.86 (range = 2–12) days. Postoperative complications included three patients with minimal wound dehiscence and one with rectovaginal fistula recurrence. At a median follow-up of 26.4 (range = 1–46) months, excluding the patient with recurrence, all patients were satisfied with house flap anoplasty. House advancement flap anoplasty is a relatively simple procedure, combining the beneficial features of rectangular flaps and V-Y plasties. It can be used in nearly all types of anoderm deficiencies with a high rate of success and patient satisfaction.

Fecal incontinence and constipation are major problems after correction of anorectal malformation (ARM), caused not only by the somatic defects but also by a psychosomatic dysfunction of defecation. To better release patients from this dysfunction we offered a multidisciplinary, psycho-and physiotherapeutic therapy according to an approach developed in Nijmegen (Netherlands). We herein summarize the preliminary results to evaluate whether the approach can be adopted with similar success. Since January 2002 multidisciplinary behavioural treatment (MBT) has been offered to children above 3 years of age and suffering from fecal incontinence and constipation after surgical correction of ARM in our department or elsewhere. Prerequisites included no anal stenosis, regulation of stool consistency, and a suitable defecation diary over 2 weeks. MBT contained regular consultations by a pediatric psychologist and a physiotherapist, teaching the child to establish a regular defecation pattern and how to push while relaxing the pelvic floor. The entry-and post-treatment situation was prospectively monitored by means of defecation and constipation scoring systems. Complete data were available in 10 patients (9 males, 1 female) with high (8 patients) and low (2) forms of anal atresia initially, who finished MBT 2–36 months ago (mean: 13 months). The average amount of stool reaching the toilet was 27% before and 90% after therapy. Clean days were absent before, reaching 3.7 days on average after therapy. Constipation was present in 6 patients before (3 of them on enemas) and in 2 after therapy (no enemas needed). The duration of MBT was 7 months on average, range 3–23 months, with 8–9 sessions per patient, each lasting 60–90 minutes. An observation period of 7 months after treatment confirmed stable results. MBT turned out to improve body-consciousness and self-confidence. MBT is effective in reducing incontinence and constipation in patients after ARM. It helps the children and their families to relieve psychosocial stress. The approach can be successfully adopted, if a team of committed specialists is available and sufficient compliance of patients and families is given. compliance of patients and families is given.

Haemorrhoidal disease has been in limelight again due to emerging newer modalities of treatment over the last decade. The range varies from simple rubber band ligation to stapled rectopexy. But a rational and ideal approach is still unclear. This study aims to analyze the ideal modality in today's scenario of managing haemorrhoidal disease. A prospective study on 12 patients, was carried out over 24 months in a surgical unit of a tertiary care hospital. The pain, bleeding, rectal discharge, anal stenosis were observed. Results show that the Cryoplication procedure had no anal stenosis, minimal bleeding, less pain and cost was effective. When compared with other contemporary modalities it has lesser complications and short and easy learning curve.

Funnel anus (FA) is a rare and distinct type of anorectal malformation characterized by a skin-lined deep anal funnel, missing transitional epithelium and stenosis secondary to fibrotic internal sphincter. We aimed to characterize associated anomalies, surgical management and outcome of children with FA. The hospital records of 11 consecutive children (7 boys) treated for FA between 1992 and 2006 were screened. The collected data included the type of anorectal malformation, surgical management, associated anomalies, results of diagnostic investigations and outcome. Only one patient was free of any associated malformation. Six patients had a complete Currarino syndrome. Seven patients had a hemisacrum (scimitar) and tethered cord was present in two cases. Six patients underwent excision of a benign presacral teratoma. Anal stenosis associated with FA was managed by serial dilatations. Subsequent resection of the megarectosigmoid secondary to refractory constipation was performed on five occasions. Three patients underwent coloanal pull-through for Hirschsprung's disease (HD). The level of aganglionosis was at the rectosigmoid junction in two cases and low in the rectum in one. One additional patient had hypoganglionosis. Of the three patients with HD two also had Down's syndrome. After median follow-up of 6.5 (0.3-13.5) years four patients have normal bowel function and four suffer from soiling. Two patients with HD and Down's syndrome and one patient with an undefined syndrome are fecally incontinent. Associated anomalies are common and diverse in children with FA. Pelvic MRI, sacral radiography, evaluation of the urinary tract and rectal biopsies are recommended as routine investigations in cases of FA. Surgical care of these patients is demanding and should be confined to dedicated centers.

The present article details a new technique for the repair of rectovestibular fistula. Twenty-five patients with rectovestibular fistula, between 13 days and 4 years of age underwent surgical correction by transfistula anorectoplasty (TFARP). The technique, described in detail, involves mobilization of the fistula and the rectum through the fistula and creation of a new anus in the anatomically normal site by preserving both the perineal skin bridge (skin between the neo-anus and the posterior fourchette) and the levator muscle. The mean operating time was 85 min, and the mean hospital stay was 5 days. Moderate anal stenosis developed in 1 patient and was treated successfully by anal dilatations using Hegar dilators. A diverting colostomy was not required in any patient, and none of the patients developed rectal prolapse. Eleven patients who are now 3 years of age or older have voluntary bowel movements with good fecal continence scores. The 14 neonates and infants, who are still too young to be evaluated for continence, have symmetric anal contraction to stimulation and strong squeeze on digital rectal examination. The average number of bowel movements per day was three to five, without the need for any laxative or enema. Transfistula anorectoplasty is a simple surgical procedure that does not divide the levator muscle or the perineal body. Preservation of these structures contributes significantly toward improvement of the aesthetic appearance of the perineum and of fecal continence.

Background: The procedure for prolapsing hemorrhoids (PPH) is a new surgical method for the treatment of symptomatic hemorrhoids. In cases of recurrent prolapse, the performance of a second PPH may result in a ring of mucosa and submucosa between the two circular staple lines. In this study, we used a porcine model to assess whether PPH can be safely performed twice. Methods: Five adult pigs underwent two PPH procedures in one session, leaving a ring of ~1 cm of mucosa between the two staple lines. One month later, the pigs were examined under anesthesia. The anal canal was assessed using the following four methods: (a) clinical examination, (b) evaluation of mucosal blood perfusion at different levels of the anal canal via a laser Doppler flow detector, (c) measurement of concentrations of hydroxyproline and collagen to check for fibrosis, and (d) histopathological examination. Results: At the completion of the study period, all five pigs showed no clinical evidence of anorectal dysfunction. On examination under anesthesia 1 month after surgery, there was no evidence of anal stenosis in any of the pigs. The mean mucosal blood flow between the two staple lines did not differ significantly from the flow measured proximally and distally (394 vs 363 and 339 flow units, respectively; p = NS). The collagen levels, based on hydroxyproline concentration, were 81 mcg/mg between the staple lines, compared to 82 and 79 proximally and distally, respectively (p = NS). There was no significant difference in degree of fibrosis, as assessed histopathologically, between specimens taken from the ring between the staple lines and specimens taken from the area external to the staple lines. Conclusions: The results of this porcine model suggest that a second synchronous PPH is feasible. A controlled experience involving human subjects is required to determine the safety and usefulness of this technique in cases of metachronous application for recurrent or residual hemorrhoids.

The aim of this report is to describe our experience with stapled haemorrhoidopexy as a day surgery procedure. From January 2000 to January 2003, a total of 214 patients with third- and fourth-degree haemorrhoids underwent stapled haemorrhoidopexy under spinal anaesthesia. We analysed early postoperative complications and long-term results. Patients were followed for 4–36 months (mean, 22 months). Only 3 patients (1%) were hospitalised. The long-term complications were analysed by means of a mailed questionnaire. Minor bleeding at wiping after defecation was observed by 9% of patients and minor haemorrhoidal prolapse by 8% of patients. Pain after defecation was reported by 6% of patients and anal stenosis occurred in 2% of them. Faecal urgency was reported by 3% of patients with previously unknown incontinence problems. According to our experience, stapled haemorrhoidopexy can be safely performed as a day surgery procedure.

Between 1987 and 1993, lateral sphincterotomy was performed in 59 patients with outlet obstruction due to anal stenosis. In all patients, the operation was performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia. Electromanometry of the anal canal was carried out pre-operatively in order to demonstrate the raised resting pressure profile within the anal canal. At the same time the maximum squeezing pressure was determined by electromanometry. Six weeks after operation, electromanometry was performed again to determine the resting pressure profile and the maximum squeezing pressure of the sphincter system. As a result of the lateral sphincterotomy, the resting pressure was lowered in all patients from 103.3±16.6 to 80.5±16.6 and the maximum squeezing pressure from 145.3±23.8 to 127.8±28.4. Both results are highly significant (p

INTRODUCTION: Control of postoperative symptoms is of paramount importance in ambulatory surgery. This trial was conducted to evaluate whether a micronized purified flavonoid fraction (MPFF) (Detralex®) reduces postoperative bleeding, pain and consumption of analgesics after ambulatory stapled hemorrhoidopexy, as reported in trials after classic hemorrhoidectomy. Phlebotropic activity, protective effect on the capillaries and anti-inflammatory properties of this drug have been reported in several studies. METHODS: Sixty-three patients with third-degree hemorrhoids had ambulatory stapled hemorrhoidopexy under spinal anesthesia in the period of one year. The patients were randomized, with 30 receiving Detralex 500 mg (2 tablets 3 times daily for 5 days after the operation) and 33 forming the control group. The patients were asked to daily self-assess the presence of blood on defecation, degree of pain and consumption of analgesics for the first week after the operation. RESULTS: There was no significant difference between the two groups in duration of presence of blood, degree of pain or analgesics requirement. No major complications, such as bleeding requiring transfusion or hospitalization, sepsis, anal stenosis or urgent defecation, were noted in the follow-up period. There were no side effects from Detralex treatment. DISCUSSION: In our study we could not demonstrate any positive effect of prescribing flavonoids after stapler hemorrhoidopexy. This procedure may not be sufficiently aggressive and is associated with too few postoperative complications to show any protective influence of flavonoids.

An association of Amniotic Band Disruption Sequence and Mermaid Syndrome in a newborn having multiple congenital anomalies is being reported. The newborn had aberrant string like tissues attached to the amputed fingers and toes. Adhesions of amniotic bands had disrupted the fetal parts especially anteriorly in the midline, causing multiple anomalies. Apart from these features of Amniotic Band Disruption Sequence, the newborn had complete fusion of the lower limbs by cutaneous tissue, a characteristic of Mermaid Syndrome (Sirenomelia). Associated malformations were anal stenosis, rectal atresia, small horseshoe kidney, hypoplastic urinary bladder and a bicomuate uterus. The single umbilical artery had a high origin, arising directly from the aorta just distal to the celiac axis, which is unique to sirenomelia. Theories put forward regarding the etiopathogenesis of both the conditions are discussed.

Objective: Hirschsprung’s disease may be associated with a number of congenital anomalies of which Down’s syndrome and intestinal atresias are commonly encountered. The study aimed to assess the impact of rare associated anomalies on the diagnosis and management of Hirschsprung’s disease.Methods: A retrospective review of the clinical presentation, diagnosis and outcome of thirty five consecutive newly diagnosed cases of Hirschsprung’s disease encountered over two years was performed.Results: Besides Down’s syndrome (two), intestinal atresia (one) and pigmentary ocular defects (two), three rare anomalies (Occipital meningocele, Calcific meconium cyst with anal stenosis, Malrotation) were encountered in four of thirty five cases. The clinical features, radiologic anatomy and gross morphology of the bowel were unconventional and the diagnosis was supported by intraoperative acetylcholinesterase staining of biopsies. Though the diagnosis was relatively delayed in these cases, the outcome has been comparable to the rest. The dilemma in their diagnosis and management and their possible pathoembryology is discussed.Conclusion: Awareness of such associations and a specific investigative protocol is imperative for timely diagnosis and minimal morbidity in complex presentations of Hirschsprung’s disease.

Background Benign anal stenosis is an uncommon, disabling and incapacitating disease, occurring mainly after anorectal surgery. To date, ideal management of this problem has not been well defined. Different surgical options have been described in literature to treat anal stricture and every flap anoplasty presents advantages and limitations. We retrospectively analyzed the results of the surgical treatment of this disease in the Coloproctology Unit of our Department.

We appreciate the opportunity to respond to the letter by Dr. Khubchandani. Based upon the comment from Dr. Khubchandani, we are pleased to find a very thorough colorectal specialist with acute eyesight and cautious support for a novel technique. Circular stapled hemorrhoidopexy (CSH), which has gained wide popularity since 1998 because of its efficacy and the low postoperative pain associated with the technique [1], was adopted by more and more proctologists to treat prolapsing hemorrhoids. According to our estimate, about 20, 000 cases of PPH were treated in China each year. However, potential complications including rectovaginal fistula and anal stenosis cannot be avoided completely, whereas lifethreatening severe complications are increasingly reported [2]. The need to improve the results of this stapled technique led surgeons to develop a modified technique, even a novel technique. The idea of tissue-selecting technique (TST), namely partial stapled hemorrhoidopexy, is aimed at overcoming the weakness and limitations of CSH. Anal stenosis after CSH was often encountered in clinical practice. Some of these cases may be attributed to surgical error such as removal of large areas of anoderm. However, even an experienced surgeon with meticulous technique will also find that a little anal stricture develops in some patients after this circular technique. It will not always be due to surgical error and may be due to the fact that full circumference of the rectal mucosa is affected. TST gets partial circumference anastomosis to avoid anal stenosis and spares the rectal wall adjacent to the vagina to avoid rectovaginal fistula completely by using our specially designed anoscope in female patients. Further clarifications of the ‘‘mucosal bridge’’ in our article are required. Actually, after the stapler in TST is fired and gently withdrawn, a minimal mucosal bridge with some staples connecting the two edges of the mucosectomies (Fig. 1), like in the case of STARR, was found and dissected using electrocautery. Due to the protection by the spatula of the tri-window anoscope, a mucosal bridge, consisting of normal rectal mucosa, was spared (Fig. 2). Because of the preservation of partial of rectal wall between mucosectomies, a better rectal compliance was maintained and this resulted in less damage to anorectal function. CSH has the same safety and efficacy as conventional hemorrhoidectomy, and this could account for the widespread adoption of CSH. Nevertheless, few studies have been performed investigating the potential influence on the anorectal function and the mechanism of postoperative outcomes including pain, fecal urgency, and anal stenosis after CSH. Our preliminary study on TST has demonstrated that this modified technique is associated with good anorectal function including fewer episodes of urgency and no anal incontinence or anal stenosis [3]. Nevertheless, randomized controlled trials that compare the TST and CSH procedures are required to confirm the results of this preliminary trial. Damage to the healthy tissue should be lessened on the condition that therapeutic efficacy is guaranteed. TST is designed to treat prolapsing hemorrhoids with minimal damage to the normal tissue. This is the fundamental idea of TST. Any new approach, first introduced into clinical This reply refers to the comment available at doi:10.1007/s10151-012-0866-x.

A premature infant of 31 weeks' gestation underwent repair of an oesophageal atresia, distal tracheo-oesophageal fistula and anal stenosis. A lymphatic leak was noted at the time of surgery. Chylous drainage persisted and an intravenous infusion of somatostatin was begun. The volume of chyle drained fell dramatically within the first 24 h and was negligible by the 5th day of treatment. No reaccumulation of the chylothorax was seen after the cessation of somatostatin. To our knowledge this is the youngest reported child in whom somatostatin has been used successfully in treating a postoperative chylothorax.

We present two Australian families with the triad of anorectal, sacrococcygeal, and presacral anomalies. In one family four members had sacral deformities, three of which were associated with presacral masses and anal stenosis. The presacral masses were: one meningocoele combined with a teratoma; one teratoma; and the third remains undiagnosed and unresected at the patient's request. In the second family, one child had an infected presacral teratoma with a small sacral defect and the father had a similar sacral defect with computed tomographic evidence of a presacral meningocoele and teratoma. The presence of anal stenosis and constipation with a sacral defect should raise the possibility of a presacral mass. The mass may take the form of a meningocoele, teratoma, enteric cyst, or any combination of these. Once detected, other family members should be investigated.

Anterior displacement of a normal anus is recognized as a cause of severe constipation in some children. We have reviewed our experience with 13 children treated for this disorder over the past 8 years at the University of Virginia Health Sciences Center. Twelve of the patients were female and the age at the time of operation ranged between 12 months and 9 years. In all patients constipation began in the first 3 to 6 months of life. Symptoms were characterized by marked straining upon passage of stool, often accompanied by perineal pain. All patients had been unsuccessfully treated with agressive use of stool softeners and cathartics. The anus had a normal appearance, although it was located anterior to its normal position in every case. There was no evidence of anal stenosis on digital examination; in each case a large posterior rectal cul-de-sac could be palpated. A barium enema examination disclosed a prominent posterior shelf of the rectum, often with enormous dilation of the colon posteriorly. All patients underwent surgical treatment using a posterior anoplasty with advancement of the posterior rectal wall. In 10 patients a posterior rectal myomectomy was added to the procedure. Pathologic evaluation of the rectal muscle was normal in each instance. Complete relief of constipation was achieved in all patients, with follow-up extending for as long as 6 years. One patient continues to require occasional use of stool softeners. Anterior displacement of the anus is a frequently overlooked, although easily corrected, cause of severe constipation in childhood.

A study of anal fissure, anal spasm and anal stenosis is presented. The evolution of these lesions is described. The anatomy of the anal canal and ano-rectum is presented because of its important bearing upon treatment. Treatment is based upon the principle of Hilton, namely, the securing of adequate mechanical and physiological rest to the affected parts. Based upon the principle of rest, the Author has presented his plan of treatment. The carrying out of the described technique necessitates careful attention to anatomical structures and landmarks. The treatment is essentially conservative and ambulant, and in the Author’s experience has greatly reduced the number of cases which need to be treated by radical surgical measures.

We report two patients with Opitz trigonocephaly syndrome. Both children showed the pattern of abnormal findings characteristic of this syndrome, including trigonocephaly, upslanted palpebral fissures, inner epicanthic folds, broad alveolar ridges, small chin, short neck with loose skin, muscular hypotonia and cardiac defect. An 8-week-old girl had multiple gingival frenula, brachydactyly, syndactyly of toes and anal stenosis in addition, while a boy who died at 28 h from cardiac failure showed multiple joint contractures, cryptorchidism and renal cortical cysts.