Congenital pouch colon: an unusual case report

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Congenital Malformations

Background:

• Congenital pouch colon (CPC) is a rare gastrointestinal malformation.
• It is characterized by colon dilation and is often associated with anorectal malformation (ARM) and genitourinary fistulas.

Observation:

• A 2-day-old female infant presented with abdominal distension and imperforate anus.
• Initial colostomy management led to high output; subsequent imaging revealed jejunal loop exteriorization.
• Exploratory surgery confirmed CPC, colonic agenesis, and an ileal pouch connected to the bladder.

Findings:

• The case details a rare presentation of congenital pouch colon with complete colonic agenesis.
• The ileum connected directly to a dilated pouch that communicated with the bladder.

Implications:

• Accurate pre-surgical evaluation is crucial for effective surgical planning in anorectal malformation cases.
• This case underscores the rarity of CPC in Western countries and the need for regional data collection.
• Improved diagnostic and surgical strategies can reduce morbidity and mortality associated with complex anorectal malformations.