Perineal Groove: An Anorectal Malformation Network, Consortium Study

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Anorectal Malformations
• Congenital Anomalies

Background:

• Perineal groove (PG) is a rare congenital anomaly.
• Its association with anorectal malformations (ARMs) is not well-established.
• Understanding PG's characteristics and management is crucial for pediatric surgical practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the Anorectal Malformation Network's experience with perineal groove (PG).
• To focus on the clinical characteristics and management strategies for PG.
• To evaluate the outcomes of different management approaches for PG.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective data collection from 10 Anorectal Malformation Network centers (1999-2019).
• Analysis of clinical characteristics and management of 66 patients diagnosed with PG.
• Review of expectant management versus surgical intervention outcomes.

Main Results:

• The cohort included 66 patients, predominantly female (65), with a median age of 1.4 months at diagnosis.
• Anorectal malformations were present in 34.8% of patients.
• Expectant management (71.2%) led to spontaneous healing in most cases, with surgery reserved for complications or associated ARMs.

Conclusions:

• Perineal groove is an underestimated anomaly frequently associated with anorectal malformations.
• Spontaneous healing is common, supporting expectant management as the primary approach.
• Surgical excision of PG is recommended when concurrent with anorectal malformations requiring reconstruction.