Clinical Trial: Long-term Outcome in Patients With Anorectal Malformations

Study Status: Not yet recruiting
Recruit Status: Not yet recruiting
Study Type: Observational




Official Title: Long-term Outcome in Patients Operated for Congenital Anorectal Malformations

Brief Summary:

Background Anorectal malformations(ARM) are rare and cover congenital defective development of rectum.

ARM include a range of congenital conditions and may in varying degrees involve the anorectum. A significant part have malformations in other organs mainly the urinary tract.

In the vast majority ARM are recognized at birth by lack of a normal anus. The primary approach is construction of a stoma and subsequent reconstruction. Bowel continuity is typical restored after 4-6 months.

Many patients experience abnormal bowel function later on and affected quality of life(QoL).

Aim

The primary objective is to assess the patient-related outcome 10-30 years after surgery for ARM and to see if it related to existing damage to anorectum and bowel function. The secondary objective is to identify problems with bowel function which may be treated medically or by surgery to improve bowel function and QoL. To obtain the necessary knowledge the study is divided in the following sub-projects:

  1. Assessment of bowel function and QoL through relevant questionnaires
  2. Examine sphincter anatomy and function through rectal ultrasound, magnetic resonans(MR)-scan of the pelvis and anal manometry. Bowel function is assessed through colonic transit time. Screening for urinary tract problems with uroflowmetry.

Methods Participants are identified through relevant diagnostic codes(Q 42) and patients which underwent surgery for ARM in the years 1985-2005 are included if informed consent is obtained.