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Quantification of Levator Ani Hiatus Enlargement by Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Males and Females with Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Published on: April 17, 2019
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-assisted laparoscopic anorectoplasty for imperforate anus: a single center
Tina T Thomas1, Daniel H Teitelbaum1, Ethan A Smith2
1Department of Pediatric Surgery, C. S. Mott Children's Hospital, University of Michigan Health Care System, 1540 East Hospital Drive, SPC 4211, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-4211, USA.
Purpose:
Surgical procedures for high imperforate anus have ranged from the posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP) to laparoscopic-assisted anorectoplasty (LAARP). PSARP bisects the sphincter muscle complex, introducing muscle injury and scarring. LAARP uses a straight trocar to traverse an often non-linear sphincter muscle complex. MRI-assisted LAARP (MRI-LAARP) guides the neorectum precisely through the middle of the entire sphincter complex along its trajectory. We present our experience utilizing MRI intraoperatively during LAARP.
Methods/Procedure:
Ten children underwent MRI-LAARP procedures. Intraoperative MRI was performed to delineate the sphincter complex, and to guide the advancement of an MRI-compatible needle through the center of the complex from skin to the peritoneal cavity. The remainder of the procedure was completed using the standard LAARP technique.
Results:
All had successful MRI needle placement through the sphincter complex. Nine patients had successful laparoscopic pull-through procedures; one was converted to open due to severe intraperitoneal adhesions. Postoperative stay averaged 5.4 ± 4.4 days. Out of the ten patients, one child had mild dehiscence of the anal anastomosis requiring revision 11 days postoperatively.
Conclusion:
The theoretical advantage of the MRI-LAARP is placing the neorectum through the entire sphincter complex without transecting the muscle. Follow-up of these patients shows good short-term results; however, long-term follow-up will be needed to best assess sphincter and bowel function.
Insights
Magnetic Resonance Imaging-assisted Laparoscopic-Assisted Anorectoplasty (MRI-LAARP) precisely guides neorectum placement in high imperforate anus cases. This technique shows promising short-term outcomes for sphincter preservation and functional results.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Medical Imaging
- Anorectal Malformations
Background:
- Traditional surgical approaches for high imperforate anus, such as posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP) and laparoscopic-assisted anorectoplasty (LAARP), have limitations.
- PSARP can cause muscle injury and scarring, while standard LAARP may struggle with non-linear sphincter complex anatomy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility and initial outcomes of intraoperative Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)-assisted Laparoscopic-Assisted Anorectoplasty (MRI-LAARP).
- To assess the ability of MRI-LAARP to precisely guide neorectal placement through the center of the sphincter complex, minimizing muscle damage.
Main Methods:
- Ten pediatric patients with high imperforate anus underwent MRI-LAARP.
- Intraoperative MRI was utilized to delineate the sphincter complex and guide an MRI-compatible needle for precise placement.
- The procedure was completed using standard LAARP techniques after needle guidance.
Main Results:
- Successful MRI needle placement through the sphincter complex was achieved in all ten patients.
- Nine patients underwent successful laparoscopic pull-through procedures; one required conversion to open surgery due to adhesions.
- The average postoperative hospital stay was 5.4 days, with one patient experiencing mild anal anastomosis dehiscence requiring revision.
Conclusions:
- MRI-LAARP offers a theoretical advantage by enabling neorectum placement through the sphincter complex without muscle transection.
- Initial follow-up indicates good short-term results, but long-term assessment of sphincter and bowel function is necessary.
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