The diagnostic value of MRI on anorectal malformation

Objective: To discuss the value of MRI on anorectal malformation. Methods: Twenty- four cases with operatively proved anorectal malformation were collected. MR Imaging was performed in all patients. Results: High location imperforate anus were demonstrated in 5 cases, the rectal end of them was above PC line, and the distance between the rectal end and anal skin pouch was more than 25 mm. Two cases of the malformation with vertebrae sacrales and caudal vertebrae and 1 case together with the malformation of kidney, 3 cases of the rectourethral fistula and rectobladdery fistula were found. The sphincter of anus were asymmetry in all the 5 cases. Seven cases were proved of middle location of imperforate anus. The rectal end was equal with PC line, the distance between the rectal end and anal skin pouch was about 15 mm. Five cases were found the fistula between the urethra and the rectum, 2 cases were found the fistula between the vestibule and the rectum. Twelve cases were proved of low location of imperforate anus. The rectal end was under PC line, the distance between the rectal end and anal skin pouch was less than 10 mm. Three cases of perineal fistula were found. The sphincter of anus was normal in 10 cases on imaging of saturated fat sequence, 9 cases were found slightly asymmetry in middle and low location imperforate anus. Conclusion: In the pre-operation of imperforate anu, the located diagnosis of MRI had high accuracy, and the combinations of malformations were display clearly. It could afford the witnesses for the choice of operative fashion and the forecast of the prognosis or complication. (authors)