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Enterolithiasis with imperforate anus: report of a case

Yogesh Kumar Sarin1, Arvind Sinha

  • 1Department of Pediatric Surgery, Maulana Azad Medical College, New Delhi-110002, India.

Pediatric Surgery International
|February 25, 2003
PubMed

Insights

A child with imperforate anus developed severe anal stenosis and enteroliths due to a recto-urethral fistula. Prompt surgical intervention is crucial for managing complex anorectal malformations and preventing complications.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Gastroenterology
  • Urology

Background:

  • Imperforate anus is a congenital condition requiring timely surgical correction.
  • Fistula formation is a known complication, potentially leading to long-term issues.
  • Enteroliths are rare complications in pediatric surgical cases.

Observation:

  • A three-year-old child with a history of imperforate anus repair presented with severe anal stenosis.
  • The patient subsequently developed multiple radio-opaque shadows in the pelvis.
  • These findings were consistent with enterolith formation.

Findings:

  • Enteroliths were identified in the distal rectal stump.
  • A large recto-urethral fistula was suspected as the primary cause of enterolithiasis.
  • Urinary stasis associated with the fistula likely contributed to enterolith formation.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the importance of thoroughly assessing and repairing fistulas in imperforate anus cases.
  • Early recognition and management of recto-urethral fistulas are critical to prevent complications like enteroliths.
  • Further research into long-term outcomes of complex anorectal malformations is warranted.

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