Sonography for an Imperforate Anus: Approach, Timing of the Examination, and Evaluation of the Type of Imperforate Anus and Associated Anomalies

Abstract

This systematic review outlines the role of sonography in an imperforate anus. The diagnostic performance for type of imperforate anus is superior on the day after birth than that on the day of birth by using the pouch-perineum distance. Three approaches can be used (suprapubic, infracoccygeal, and perineal). The pouch-perineum distance, fistula location, and relationship between the puborectalis muscle and distal rectal pouch are useful for classifying the type of imperforate anus. However, the pouch-perineum distance measured has an overlap between the low and high/intermediate types of imperforate anus. Sonography can be useful for some of the associated anomalies and helpful for surgeons in some cases.

Keywords: anorectal malformation; pediatric ultrasound; sonography.