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Published in: Pediatric Radiology 8/2009

01-08-2009 | Original Article

Utility of spinal MRI in children with anorectal malformation

Authors: Mikiko Miyasaka, Shunsuke Nosaka, Yoshihiro Kitano, Katsuhiko Ueoka, Yoshiyuki Tsutsumi, Tatsuo Kuroda, Toshiroh Honna

Published in: Pediatric Radiology | Issue 8/2009

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Abstract

Background

The association between spinal cord anomalies and imperforate anus is well recognized. Until now, the incidence of tethered cord has been assumed to be higher in patients with high-type imperforate anus. However, recent reports suggest that tethered cord is as common in patients with a low lesion as in those with a high lesion.

Objective

To review the incidence of spinal cord anomalies in those with a low lesion and those with a high (including intermediate) anorectal malformation (ARM), and to determine the best diagnostic imaging strategy.

Materials and methods

A group of 50 consecutive patients with postoperative ARM and in whom spinal MRI had been performed were identified retrospectively. We reviewed and compared the following factors between those with a high lesion and those with a low lesion: (1) clinical symptoms, (2) spinal cord anomalies, and (3) vertebral anomalies.

Results

The incidence of spinal cord anomalies was no different between those with a high lesion and those with a low lesion, and spinal cord anomalies were present regardless of the presence of vertebral anomalies or symptoms.

Conclusion

Owing to the high incidence of spinal cord anomalies in patients with imperforate anus, MRI is the best imaging tool for detecting such anomalies regardless of the level of the lesion.
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Metadata
Title
Utility of spinal MRI in children with anorectal malformation
Authors
Mikiko Miyasaka
Shunsuke Nosaka
Yoshihiro Kitano
Katsuhiko Ueoka
Yoshiyuki Tsutsumi
Tatsuo Kuroda
Toshiroh Honna
Publication date
01-08-2009
Publisher
Springer-Verlag
Published in
Pediatric Radiology / Issue 8/2009
Print ISSN: 0301-0449
Electronic ISSN: 1432-1998
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00247-009-1287-5

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