Role of MRI in Preoperative and Postoperative Evaluation of Anorectal Malformation

Background: Anorectal malformations (ARMs) are among the most common congenital defects seen in pediatric surgery, with an estimated incidence of 1 in 2000 to 1 in 5000 live births. Identification of malformation type and level is essential for the postnatal care of children with ARM. Objectives: To assess the role of MRI in preoperative and postoperative evaluation of anorectal malformation. Patients and methods: This cross-sectional study was performed in the diagnostic radiology department at Qena University Hospital. It was performed on 30 cases of anorectal malformation patients; and all of them were subjected to MRI for preoperative or postoperative evaluation. Results: A total of 30 anorectal malformation patients were included in this study, 19 patients presented by anterior ectopic anus(63.3%) and 11 patients presented by imperforated anus (36.7%). The study detected anatomical malformation pre-operative and detected degree of correction of this malformation and the postoperative complication. Conclusion: MRI provided elaborate anatomical details which were well correlated with the operative findings. MRI is the single imaging modality which can answer all these aspects of ARM accurately in a single sitting and without use of any ionizing radiation to child.