Comparison of clinical outcome and anal manometry following laparoscopic-assisted anorectoplasty and posterior sagittal anorectoplasty in patients with high and intermediate anorectal malformation: A randomised controlled trial

Abstract

Introduction: High and intermediate types of anorectal malformations (ARMs) may be managed by either open posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP) or by laparoscopic-assisted anorectoplasty (LAARP). Most of the literature favours one approach over the other based on retrospective analysis. We performed this study with the aim to compare the short-term outcomes of both procedures. Materials and Methods: All paediatric patients with high and intermediate ARM were enrolled and randomised into two groups: open PSARP group and LAARP group. Outcome parameters such as faecal continence using Kelly's scoring system, anal manometric parameters and post-operative complications were compared between the groups. Results: A total of 16 patients were included with equal distribution in the open PSARP and LAARP group. Patient's variables were comparable in both the groups. Five patients developed immediate post-operative complications, three in the LAARP and two in the open group. The mean Kelly's score was 3.63 ± 1.6 versus 2.57 ± 1.9 (P = 0.132) for LAARP and PSARP group, respectively. The mean resting pressure was 34.71 ± 6.26 cm of H2O and 35 ± 6.16 cm of H2O (P = 0.384) in LAARP and open group, respectively. Rectoanal inhibitory reflex was demonstrated in 6/7 patients in LAARP group and 5/7 patients in open group. Conclusion: Faecal continence in patients undergoing either of the procedure is comparable. However, wound-related complications are lesser in LAARP procedure