Surgical management of neglected anorectal malformation in an adult

Abstract

Background: Neglected anorectal malformations in adults, often resulting from failed neonatal repairs and long-term loss of follow-up, present significant surgical challenges, including chronic constipation, megarectum, and fecal incontinence. Management of these rare cases requires a staged surgical approach, utilizing meticulous dissection to navigate hostile tissue and a tailored bowel management program to improve functional outcomes. Detailed radiological findings, such as MRI and contrast studies, are essential for mapping complex anatomy, identifying the sphincter complex, and planning necessary redo surgeries.