Management of Anorectal Malformation: Experience from Ethiopia

Abstract

Background: Anorectal malformations are among the most common congenital malformation seen in children. There is paucity of data regarding the incidence and treatment outcome of this disease from Ethiopia. Methods: This is a retrospective review of patients treated for ARM at the TASH from March 2010-February 2014. Relevant statistical analysis was done and the results presented in tables and graphs. Results: Six patients (6%) presented at early neonatal age (before the age of 4 days) and 14 (14%) presented between 4 days and one month. A total of 57 associated congenital malformations were diagnosed in 44/99(44%) patients. The two most common type of ARM diagnosed among the female patients were recto- vestibular fistula which occurred in 39/56 (70%) andperineal fistula accounting for 6/56 (11%). ARM with urethral fistula was the commonest diagnosis among the male patients, making up 10/43 (23%). Post-operative outcome showed that 64 (64%) had a very good functional outcome. Conclusions: The diagnosis of anorectal malformation is late. Nearly half of the patients were found to have associated malformationsKey words: Anorectal malformation, Associated malformations, Postero-sagittal anorectoplasty