Tethered cord with anorectal malformation, sacral anomalies and presacral masses: an under-recognized association

The association of congenital anal stenosis, scimitar-shaped sacral defect and a presacral mass is known as the Currarino triad. These patients present with constipation of variable severity which may result from a combination of compression by the mass, neurogenic dysfunction as well as anal stenosis itself. We have treated three patients who illustrate the spectrum of severity of this condition. All had an associated tethered cord. One was cured by a single anal dilatation, cord release and anterior meningocele repair. The second did not improve after anoplasty and neurosurgical intervention. A previously diagnosed rectal ectasia was felt to be contributory to the constipation and was treated by low anterior resection with excellent results. The third patient developed an ischiorectal abscess that required drainage and colostomy after unsuccessful dilatation of a very tight and deeply scarred anal stenosis. A subsequent tethered cord release and closure of the anterior meningocele was followed by an anoplasty. Colostomy was closed at a later date. In all patients with anal stenosis a search should be made for a presacral mass and its associated sacral defect. Release of the tethered cord, resection of the presacral mass and/or closure of the anterior meningocele are essential for optimal functional results.