Single-incision laparoscopic-assisted anorectoplasty for treating children with intermediate-type anorectal malformations and rectobulbar fistula: a comparative study

Single-incision laparoscopic-assisted anorectoplasty (SILAARP) was compared to posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP) for treating intermediate-type anorectal malformations (ARMs) with rectobulbar fistula. Between December 2011 and January 2016, 48 children with intermediate-type ARMS were treated with SILAARP (n = 34) or PSARP (n = 14) in our centre. Data including demographics, complications, and long-term outcomes were retrospectively compared. No significant difference was observed between both groups in terms of median operative time and complications. The length of postoperative hospital stay was shorter in the SILAARP group than in the PSARP group (6.15 ± 1.10 vs 9.64 ± 4.13 days; p = 0.008). After a mean follow-up of 59.38 ± 13.68 months, the rates of voluntary bowel movements, soiling, and constipation were similar in both groups. Anorectal manometry was performed in 15 and 7 children from the SILAARP and PSARP groups, respectively. Although there were no significant differences in the presence of rectoanal relaxation reflex and high-pressure-zone length, anal canal resting pressure was higher in the SILAARP group than in the PSARP group (33.35 ± 12.95 vs 23.06 ± 8.40 mmHg; p = 0.039). Both SILAARP and PSARP seemed feasible and effective for treating intermediate-type ARMs with rectobulbar fistula in children. However, SILAARP significantly reduced the length of postoperative hospital stay and improved anal canal resting pressure.