Bowel Functional Outcomes in Females With Perineal or Vestibular Fistula Treated With Anterior Sagittal Anorectoplasty: Controlled Results Into Adulthood

BACKGROUND:Anterior sagittal anorectoplasty is a standardized operative treatment for females with congenital rectoperineal or vestibular fistula. The controlled, long-term outcomes require characterization. OBJECTIVE:The aim of this study was to define the bowel functional outcomes following anterior sagittal anorectoplasty in relation to age- and sex-matched controls. DESIGN:This cross-sectional study was conducted at a single institution. PATIENTS:All females treated for congenital perineal or vestibular fistula with anterior sagittal anorectoplasty between 1983 and 2006 were invited to answer a detailed, previously validated questionnaire on bowel function. Each patient was matched to 3 controls who had answered identical questionnaires. Ethical approval was obtained. Social continence was defined as soiling or fecal accidents