Study on Anorectal Malformations and Tethered Cord Syndrome in Children
Author Information
Author(s): Zhang Tao-Tao, Huang Yan-Bing, He Yu-Yan, Chen Fan, Ying Jian-Bin, Sun Shou-Qing, Zhao Qing-Shuang, Jing Jun-Jie, Ballouhey Quentin
Primary Institution: Fujian Children’s Hospital
Hypothesis
What are the risk factors for the co-occurrence of anorectal malformations and tethered cord syndrome in children, and how does untethering surgery impact anorectal function?
Conclusion
Intermediate or high-type anorectal malformations and the presence of other malformations are risk factors for tethered cord syndrome in children, and untethering surgery can significantly improve constipation in those with low-type malformations.
Supporting Evidence
- Intermediate or high-type anorectal malformations increase the risk of tethered cord syndrome.
- Children with low-type anorectal malformations showed significant improvement in constipation after untethering surgery.
- 27.2% of children with anorectal malformations were found to have tethered cord syndrome.
- Presence of other malformations also increases the risk of tethered cord syndrome.
Takeaway
Some kids are born with problems in their bottom area and their spine. This study found that fixing the spine can help some of these kids feel better.
Methodology
A retrospective analysis of 130 children with anorectal malformations treated at Fujian Provincial Children’s Hospital, focusing on risk factors and the impact of untethering surgery.
Potential Biases
Potential recall bias from parents regarding sensitive information and limited sample sizes for some groups.
Limitations
The study is retrospective, relies on parental recall for some data, is single-centered, and lacks objective examination results for anorectal function assessment.
Participant Demographics
Children aged 16 years or younger with anorectal malformations.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.010
Confidence Interval
95% CI from 1.355 to 9.418
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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