Radiological investigations of imperforate anus

Introduction: Imperforate anus is a defect that is present from birth (congenital) in which the opening to the anus is missing or blocked. In female infants, imperforate anus is typically characterized by the rectum, bladder and vagina sharing one large opening called a cloaca. The condition develops in utero during the 5th to 7th weeks of pregnancy. This condition often happens in conjunction with other defects of the rectum. Incidence is 1 in 5000. It is more common in males. Diagnosis is usually made shortly after birth. Aims and objectives: To study the presentation of imperforate anus using various radiological modalities. Materials and methods: 10 cases of either strong suspicion or symptoms related to imperforate anus were evaluated who came to Dhiraj hospital with different radiological modalities like plain radiograph lateral invertogram, cross table lateral radiograph, erect radiograph and contrast studies (MCUG). Results: Out of total number of 10 patients who were diagnosed and evaluated for imperforate anus 3 i.e. 33.3 % were diagnosed with plain radiograph lateral invertogram, 2 i.e. 20 % were diagnosed with prone cross table lateral radiograph, 2 i.e. 20 % were diagnosed with abdominal erect radiograph and 2 were found to have recto-vesical fistula with the help of micturating cystourethrogram. Conclusion: It was concluded that plain radiograph lateral invertogram proves to be the most important modality in diagnosing imperforate anus. It is followed by prone cross table lateral radiograph and abdominal erect radiograph. Micturating cystourethrogram proves to be important in diagnosing associated anomalies such as recto-vesical fistula.