Anorectal malformations in Mulago Hospital, Kampala-Uganda

Abstract

Background: Anorectal malformations (ARM) are common congenital abnormalities in most parts of the world. Their incidence is similar to various geographical locations. This study was aimed at determining the pattern and the outcome of treatment of ARM seen at Mulago Hospital.
Methods: The following review is based on clinical experience of 96 patients who presented with ARM between 1999 and 2001 at Mulago Hospital.
Results: There were 389 cases of congenital abnormalities seen in three years of which 96 (24.7%) had anorectal malformations. There were 30 (31.3%) cases of low ARM. There were 66(68.7%) high ARM. The commonest operation done was Posterior Anal Transfer (PAT) with or without initial colostomy. The outcome was graded as good in most cases. The commonest complication was stenosis of the neo-anus, which was attributed to delayed closure of colostomy.
Conclusion: Anorectal malformations are common in Mulago Hospital. The high variety is commoner than the low variety of ARM. Posterior Anal Transfer gives good results.