Anorectal Malformation Patients in Australia and Europe: Different Location, Same Problem? A Retrospective...

Anorectal malformations (ARM) encompass a spectrum of rare congenital defects of the rectum and anus, requiring specialized reconstructive surgery. To improve epidemiological and clinical research in rare diseases such as ARM, collaborative efforts and patient registries are key. This retrospective study pools clinical data over a 30-year period from two ARM patient registries (The Royal Children's Hospital (RCH) in Melbourne, Australia, and the ARM-Network Consortium in Europe). It aims to draw comparisons on demographics, management, and outcomes between ARM patients in Australia and Europe. A total of 2947 ARM patients were included in the analyses. The RCH cohort had more complex ARM types (including rectal atresia and recto-vaginal fistula) and more associated anomalies, specifically skeletal, cardiac, and/or trachea-esophageal, than ARM-Net patients. Other patient characteristics were similar. Treatments clearly differed between the groups. European surgeons favoured the PSARP approach for both less complex and more complex ARM types, where Australian surgeons opted more often for cutback surgery in less complex, and laparoscopic assistance in more complex types. Complications were differently distributed, with less complications after LAARP and more after PSARP at RCH, compared to ARM-Net. While RCH patients more often required a redo, ARM-Net patients more commonly underwent anal dilatations. Anorectal malformation patients in Australia and Europe had minor differences in disease characteristics, and both operative and medical approaches differed. Joint efforts such as the present study emphasize the importance of collaboration to elucidate areas of improvement where surgeons may learn from each other across the world, ultimately improving patient outcomes. TYPE OF STUDY: Original Research. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III.