PURPOSE: The final aim of operation for anorectal malformations (ARMs) is acquisition of normal bowel habit by preserving an anorectal function. This study was performed to assess the functional results after definite correction of the malformations. METHODS: 37 patients (Group 1) without rectocutaneous fistula and 23 patients (Group 2) with rectocutaneous fistula were Included in the study. The authors examined functional assessment of children over 3-years-old, according to Krickenbeck classification, and analyzed the results. RESULTS: Group 1 showed significant soiling in 24.3% and constipation requiring management in 35.1%.But Group 2 showed constipation in only 8.7%. The results of Krickenbeck assessment are as follows: Group 1 showed good results in 64.9% and poor results in 35.1% with improvement over time. Group 2 showed 91.3%, 8.7%, respectively. CONCLUSION: Constipation rather than soiling was the main functional problem after surgical repair of anorectal malformations but improved over time. It seems that more aggressive management of constipation warrants good results after definite surgical repair.
Child ; Constipation ; Defecation ; Fistula ; Humans ; Soil