Prenatal diagnosis of cloacal malformations

Ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging features of fetal urogenital anomalies: A pictorial essay

This pictorial essay focuses on ultrasound (US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of fetal urogenital anomalies. Fetal urogenital malformations account for 30%-50% of all anomalies discovered during pregnancy or at birth. They are usually detected by fetal ultrasound exams. However, when ultrasound data on their characteristics is insufficient, MRI is the best option for detecting other associated anomalies. The prognosis highly depends on their type and whether they are associated with other fetal abnormalities.

Fetal ascites in cloacal malformations-a red flag

INTRODUCTION

Cloacal malformation is a rare anomaly that remains a diagnostic challenge prenatally, despite the current advances in ultrasonography and MRI. This condition can in some, present with isolated ascites or with other findings, such as a pelvic cyst or upper urinary tract dilatation. In a minority, the ascites may be progressive, questioning the role of antenatal intervention.

METHODS

We report on ten patients that have been identified from our Cloaca database between 2010 and 2022.

RESULTS

The presence of ascites was associated with extensive bowel adhesions and matting, leading to a challenging initial laparotomy and peri-operative course.

CONCLUSIONS

Antenatal finding of ascites in newborns with cloacal malformations should raise a red flag. The surgeon and anaesthetist should be prepared for the operative difficulties secondary to bowel adhesions and the higher risk of haemodynamic instability at the initial surgery. An experienced team at initial laparotomy in such patients is vital.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

II.

Prenatal ultrasound manifestations of partial urorectal septum malformation sequence from the first trimester to postnatal: a case report

BACKGROUND

Urorectal septum malformation sequence (URSMS) is characterized by incomplete partitioning of the genital, rectal, and urinary tracts, resulting in a severe form of anorectal malformation. The partial URSMS, also known as the persistent cloaca, represents a milder variant where a single perineal opening serves as a passage for the urinary, gastrointestinal, and reproductive tracts.

CASE PRESENTATION

We present a rare case of partial URSMS accompanied by duplicated vagina and uterus, hydronephrosis, ascites, and anal atresia.

CONCLUSIONS

This case report describes the sonographic findings at different stages of pregnancy and their changes throughout gestation.

Prenatal Rupture of Hydrocolpos in a Cloacal Malformation

INTRODUCTION

Cloacal dysgenesis occurs from failure of embryological division of urogenital sinus and hindgut, leading to a single common perineal opening for genitourinary and gastrointestinal tracts. The prenatal diagnosis of cloacal malformation is imprecise, but the clinical correlation of postnatal findings to prenatal history can help reveal explanations for unusual pathological findings in patients with urogenital abnormalities.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 21-year-old woman was referred after her 20-week ultrasound demonstrated anhydramnios and concern for dilated fetal bowel. Fetal MRI confirmed anhydramnios and a dilated fetal colon, in addition to hydronephrosis and a pelvic cyst. Repeat ultrasound at 27 weeks showed unexpected complete resolution of her anhydramnios but new fetal ascites. The newborn girl was postnatally diagnosed with a cloacal malformation and an unusual near-complete fusion of her labia. She underwent proximal sigmoid colostomy and a tube vaginostomy at birth followed by cloacal reconstruction at 1.5 years old.

CONCLUSION

In female fetus with a pelvic cyst, one should have a high index of suspicion for cloacal anomaly and consider the possibility of urinary obstruction leading to alteration in amniotic fluid.

Patient driven change: Is collaborative care the future of medicine? Lessons learned from the care of children with colorectal problems

A basic premise in the care of complex patients is that experience, increased volume of cases, and an integrated, multi-disciplinary approach yields improved outcomes. Is this true using the example of the care of children with colorectal and pelvic reconstructive needs? This review gives a brief historical context on how care for this patient group evolved, delineates the key elements to create a collaborative care model, and describes multiple advances that have been developed, based on the model, which have improved patient care and quality of life. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Review.

First trimester lower abdominal cysts as early predictor of anorectal malformations

INTRODUCTION

Prenatal ultrasound diagnosis of anorectal malformations (ARMs) is challenging and often missed as direct visualization of the anal sphincter is not routinely performed, plus the technique is operator-dependent and inaccurate, also in expert hands. Other indirect signs, such as rectosigmoid overdistension or intraluminal calcifications, are occasionally present in late pregnancy. The detection of a cyst of the lower abdomen in the first trimester may be an early sign of ARM. Here we reported our experience and a review of the literature of such cases.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Isolated cases of lower abdomen cysts encountered in the first trimester at the Prenatal Diagnosis Unit during the last 5 years were retrieved and compared with those found in literature. Post-natal clinical data were analyzed to check the presence and type of malformations.

RESULTS

A total of three cases of lower abdomen cysts were found in our center and 13 in literature. In our case series all the cysts spontaneously regressed and were no longer visible since the second trimester of pregnancy, while in literature this was reported in only 4 out of 13 cases. ARM was confirmed in all patients at birth or post-mortem.

CONCLUSIONS

The finding of a lower abdomen cyst during the first trimester of pregnancy could be an early predictive sign of ARM, even if it disappears during pregnancy. In these cases, we suggest mentioning to the parents the possibility of an ARM during the counseling and to refer the couple to a Colorectal Center.

Persistent cloaca with fetal ascites: clinical features and perinatal management

PURPOSE

Fetuses with persistent cloaca are known to develop urine or meconium backflow into the abdominal cavity caused by obstruction of the common channel, thus leading to fetal peritonitis with fetal ascites. We analyzed the impact of prenatal fetal ascites on postnatal clinical features and management.

METHODS

This retrospective single-center cohort study was conducted to compare the perinatal parameters of patients with isolated persistent cloaca who were born and treated at our hospital between 1991 and 2021. The clinical features and management of those with and without fetal ascites were compared.

RESULTS

Among the 17 eligible patients, fetal ascites were recognized in seven. The occurrence of fetal ascites was significantly related to preterm birth, higher birth weight z-score, birth via emergency cesarean delivery, low Apgar scores at 1 min and 5 min, higher C-reactive protein levels at birth, longer duration of oxygen administration, the need for a urinary drainage catheter at initial discharge, and shorter neonatal hospital stays.

CONCLUSIONS

The postnatal management of patients with persistent cloaca with fetal ascites differed significantly from that of patients without fetal ascites. For patients with unexplained fetal ascites, magnetic resonance imaging may be helpful for determining the definite diagnosis of persistent cloaca.

A Spectrum of Ultrasound and MR Imaging of Fetal Gastrointestinal Abnormalities: Part 2 Anorectal Malformation, Liver, and Abdominal Wall Anomalies

Ultrasound (US) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are two modalities for diagnosing fetal gastrointestinal (GI) anomalies. Ultrasound (US) is the modality of choice. MRI can be used as a complementary method. Despite its expanding utilization in central nervous system (CNS) fetal malformation, MRI has not yet been established for evaluation of fetal GI abnormalities. Therefore, more attention should be paid to the clinical implications of MRI investigations following screening by US.

Fetal and Newborn Management of Cloacal Malformations

Cloaca is a rare, complex malformation encompassing the genitourinary and anorectal tract of the female in which these tracts fail to separate in utero, resulting in a single perineal orifice. Prenatal sonography detects a few cases with findings such as renal and urinary tract malformations, intraluminal calcifications, dilated bowel, ambiguous genitalia, a cystic pelvic mass, or identification of other associated anomalies prompting further imaging. Multi-disciplinary collaboration between neonatology, pediatric surgery, urology, and gynecology is paramount to achieving safe outcomes. Perinatal evaluation and management may include treatment of cardiopulmonary and renal anomalies, administration of prophylactic antibiotics, ensuring egress of urine and evaluation of hydronephrosis, drainage of a hydrocolpos, and creation of a colostomy for stool diversion. Additional imaging of the spinal cord and sacrum are obtained to plan possible neurosurgical intervention as well as prognostication of future bladder and bowel control. Endoscopic evaluation and cloacagram, followed by primary reconstruction, are performed by a multidisciplinary team outside of the neonatal period. Long-term multidisciplinary follow-up is essential given the increased rates of renal disease, neuropathic bladder, tethered cord syndrome, and stooling issues. Patients and families will also require support through the functional and psychosocial changes in puberty, adolescence, and young adulthood.

Risk factor analysis of irreversible renal dysfunction based on fetal ultrasonographic findings in patients with persistent cloaca: Results from a nationwide survey in Japan

AIM OF THE STUDY

We conducted a nationwide survey of persistent cloaca (PC) to determine its current status in Japan. We focused on the relationship between fetal ultrasonographic findings and irreversible renal dysfunction in PC.

METHOD

Patient information was obtained via questionnaire, and 466 PC patients were ultimately enrolled in this study. Fifteen patients (3.2%) who required dialysis or kidney transplantation were compared to those who were able to survive with their native kidney. Univariable and multivariable analyses were performed using a logistic regression analysis to clarify the relationship between irreversible renal dysfunction and fetal ultrasonographic findings.

RESULTS

A multivariable logistic analysis showed that fetal ultrasonic findings of oligohydramnios independently increased the risk of irreversible renal dysfunction (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 5.8, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.7-20, p = 0.005). A regression analysis showed that fetal ultrasonographic findings of hydroureteronephrosis (crude OR 5.6, 95% CI 0.9-24, p = 0.03) tended to be associated with irreversible renal dysfunction. In the PC patients with oligohydramnios, however, the ultrasonographic findings and associated anomalies did not affect the renal prognosis. The 15 renal dysfunction patients were treated as follows: hemodialysis (n = 4), peritoneal dialysis (n = 3), living donor renal transplantation (n = 8), and cadaveric renal transplantation (n = 1).

CONCLUSION

Fetal ultrasonographic findings of oligohydramnios increase the risk of irreversible renal dysfunction. Such findings suggest we consider the need for earlier therapeutic intervention, such as fetal and postnatal treatment, to prevent the progression of renal dysfunction.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

III (Study of diagnostic test, study of nonconsecutive patients and/or without a universally applied "gold" standard).

Case Report: A Case Series of Rare High-Type Anorectal Malformations With Perineal Fistula: Beware of Urethral Involvement

Anorectal malformations (ARMs) are one of the more common congenital anomalies encountered in pediatric surgery where the majority are diagnosed in the early neonatal period. The etiology of ARM remains uncertain and is likely to be multifactorial. A majority of ARMs result from abnormal development of the urorectal septum in early fetal life. There can be a broad range of presentation features varying from low anomalies with perineal fistula to high anomalies mandating intricate management. To develop a standardized system for comparison in follow-up studies, the Krickenbeck classification was introduced according to the type of fistula. According to the Krickenbeck classification of ARM, those with a rectoperineal fistula are classified as low-type ARM and are usually managed with a perineal anoplasty without colostomy. In this case series, we describe two rare cases of distinct high and intermediate ARM with rectoperineal fistulas, which were thought to be low-type ARM but were subsequently found to have urethral involvement. Our cases consisted of high and intermediate ARMs, which were successfully treated with posterior sagittal anorectoplasty as described. These cases exemplified rare variants of ARM where rectoperineal fistulas can be associated with high-type anomalies. Rare-variant ARM with rectopenile or rectoscrotal fistula can be associated with high-type anomalies in contrast to classical rectoperineal fistulas. A high index of suspicion should remain in cases with previous urinary tract infection despite normal imaging. Careful planning is also needed with consideration of possible need for urethral repair during anoplasty, which was needed in both our cases.

A case report: Common channel anomaly with vaginal agenesis and rectal stone after posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP)

Introduction and importance

We reported a case of common channel anomaly complicated with vaginal agenesis and rectal stone, which is a long-term complication of PSARP, a combination of very rare conditions with high morbidity and especially difficult treatment.

Presentation of case

A 15-year-old female presented with a chief complaint of cyclic abdominal pain. The patient had no history of menstruation before. Physical examination showed a common channel. The diameter of the common channel was approximately 1 cm and 0.3 cm in length. A sound (±2 mm thickness) was inserted to the small opening between the urethra and anal mucosa with the length of the canal 6 cm. At the end of the opening, a stone-like structure was felt. The management of this case was abdominal hysterectomy with right salpingectomy and stone evacuation.

Discussion

Cloacal malformation is thought to be associated with vaginal agenesis since both malformations are considered to have a similar pathophysiologic background. Treatment can be performed using posterior sagittal combined with laparotomy approach. After surgery, patients will need a long-term follow-up since the conditions may be associated with many possible urologic and gynecologic comorbidities, including recurrent urinary tract infections, hematosalpinx, and vesicourethral reflux, including stone formation.

Conclusion

Our case was considered one of the most complex common channel anomalies because it was complicated with a rare condition called vaginal agenesis and rectal stone after PSARP. A multidiscipline approach was necessary.

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Common channel anomaly with vaginal agenesis and rectal stone after PSARP is a complex rare condition.

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Requiring multiple diagnostic modalities

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Multidiscipline approach was needed.

Ultrasound screening for fetal anomalies in a single center: diagnostic performances twenty years after the Eurofetus Study

PURPOSE

To establish the accuracy of ultrasound in detecting fetal anomalies looking at the concordance between prenatal and postnatal diagnosis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Retrospective analysis of concordance between prenatal and postnatal/autoptic diagnosis of fetuses with congenital abnormalities. Data are from a single center (Policlinico di Modena); all fetuses included were born between 2017 and 2018 and with a follow-up of at least 6 months. We included all deliveries (including perinatal deaths) and termination of pregnancy (TOP) for fetal indication. We calculated sensibility, sensitivity, Positive and Negative Likelihood Ratio, positive and negative predictive value of ultrasound.

RESULTS

During the study period 5920 deliveries, including perinatal deaths, and 28 TOP for fetal indication were registered at our center. The prevalence of congenital malformations was 2.6% (153/5920). At least one ultrasound was performed in our center in 1250 women delivering in our unit. All 28 TOP had the anomaly scan performed in our center. Among the total 1278 women scanned in our unit, there were 128 (10%) suspicious scans. In 5/128 (3.9%) cases we diagnosed a false alarm; in 8/128 (6.2%) cases an evolutive malformation with in-utero regression. The prenatal diagnosis was confirmed in 77 (60.2%) cases at birth and in 28/128 (21.9%) at postmortem analysis while there were 10/128 false positive (7.8%). Among the 153 congenital malformations diagnosed at birth, the anomaly scan was performed in our Prenatal Medicine Unit in 92 (60.1%) fetuses. Among these, there were 15 false negatives (9.8%) while in 77/92 (83.7%) the malformation at birth agreed with the sonographic diagnosis. Sensitivity and specificity of ultrasound were 87.5% (IC95 80.2-92.8%) and 99.1% (IC95 98.4-99.6%) respectively with a Positive Likelihood Ratio and Negative Likelihood Ratio of 101.3 (IC95 54.5-188.5) and 0.13 (IC95 0.08-0.2); Positive Predictive Value and Negative Predictive Value were 91.3% (IC95 85-95.1%) and 98.7(IC95 98-99.2%).

CONCLUSION

Anomaly scan in pregnancy allows the diagnosis of congenital malformations with a sensibility of 87.5% and specificity of 99.1%. The main limitations of this study are its retrospective design and that it was conducted in a single referral center.

Visualization of the fetal anus by prenatal ultrasound for the diagnosis of anorectal malformations: is it feasible?

PURPOSE

The goal of this study was to determine the feasibility of identifying the anal dimple (AD) on routine prenatal ultrasound. Using the presence, absence, appearance, and location of the anal dimple as an indirect sign for possible underlying anorectal malformations (ARM), we hypothesize that evaluation of the anal dimple as part of the fetal anatomic survey may increase the sensitivity in detecting less severe ARMs.

METHODS

In a prospective longitudinal observational study, pregnant women who underwent prenatal ultrasound (US) at the Colorado Fetal Care Center between January 2019 and 2020 were enrolled. The variables recorded included gestational age, singleton versus multiple pregnancy, gender of the fetus, visualization of the AD, and reason for non-visualization of the AD.

RESULTS

A total of 900 ultrasounds were performed, evaluating 1044 fetuses, in 372 different pregnant women. Gestational ages ranged from 16 to 38 weeks. The AD was visualized in 612 fetuses (58.6%) and not seen in 432 (41.4%). The two most common reasons for non-visualization were extremes in gestational age (n = 155; 36%) and fetal position (n = 152; 35.3%). The optimal gestational age range for AD visualization was 28-33 weeks + 6 days, with 78.1% visualization rate.

CONCLUSION

Visualization of the anal dimple by ultrasound is feasible and may aid in the detection of less severe ARMs, ultimately impacting pregnancy management and family counseling. The optimal timing for anal dimple visualization is late second and third trimester.

New and exciting advances in pediatric colorectal and pelvic reconstructive surgery - 2021 update

Caring for children with colorectal and pelvic reconstructive needs is complex and requires a lifelong commitment from clinicians devoted to the field. There has been a myriad of advances that have improved care and it has become clear that an integrated, multi-disciplinary approach maximizes the goal of improving the quality of life of children afflicted with these conditions. The purpose of this review is to briefly discuss the history of this field and to describe the key advances that have improved patients' lives.

Can Anorectal Atresia Be Diagnosed in the First Trimester of Pregnancy? A Systematic Literature Review

Anorectal atresia (ARA) is a common congenital anomaly, but prenatal diagnosis is difficult, late, and unspecific. Utilizing a case of a 46 year old primipara with an egg donation In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) pregnancy, diagnosed at the first trimester scan with an anechoic isolated structure, which indicates anal atresia, we performed a systematic literature review in order to evaluate early prenatal ARA diagnosis. A total of 16 cases were reported as first trimester ARA suspicion, and only three had no associated anomalies. The most frequent ultrasound (US) sign was the presence of a cystic, anechoic pelvic structure of mainly tubular shape, or a plain abdominal cyst. In the majority of cases, structures were thin-walled and delimitated from the bladder. The presence of hyperechoic spots signifying enterolithiasis and peristaltic movements were helpful in order to establish the bowel origin of the lesion. Considering the high eventuality that the lesion is transitory, meaning later in pregnancy the fetus looks normal, early detection of such a sign should prompt further structural detailed evaluation, karyotyping, and appropriate pregnancy and postnatal counselling.

Cloacal malformation: A rare case report and review of prenatal imagings

RATIONALE

Cloacal malformation (CM) is a serious type of anorectal and urogenital tract malformation. However, prenatal ultrasound (US) detection of CM is challenging. In this paper, we reported a rare case of CM prenatally diagnosed by US and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), as well as reviewed the prenatal US and MRI characteristics of CM in the literature.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 30-year-old pregnant woman complained of cystic mass in the fetal abdomen detected by prenatal US.

DIAGNOSIS

Fetus CM.

INTERVENTIONS

The fetus was diagnosed as fetal CM by US and MRI, then the pregnant woman received a drug-induced labor treatment. After the neonate was delivered, the measurement was performed on the weight, length, head circumference, abdomen circumference, and bilateral thigh circumference.

OUTCOMES

A female dead neonate was delivered from the vagina of the gravida, showing congenital anus absence. Prenatal ultrasound demonstrated right kidney duplication, hydronephrosis, and right ureteral dilatation. Meanwhile, prenatal MRI showed a cystic cavity, double collecting systems of right kidney, right ureteral dilatation, and right rectum dilatation. In addition, general parameters are as follows: weight: 2280 g; length: 39 cm; head circumference: 26.3 cm; abdomen circumference: 31 cm; right thigh circumference: 17 cm, and left thigh circumference: 18 cm.

LESSONS

US combined with MRI can not only provide reliable evidence for fetal CM in the third trimester but also offer crucial information to the pregnant women to establish clinic treatment programs as early as possible.

Challenges in the Prenatal Diagnosis of Cloaca

Background:

Cloaca is a common excretory channel for the genital, urinary, and gastrointestinal tracts. It is considered a severe anorectal malformation caused by failed partitioning of the genital, rectal, and urinary tracts.

Methods:

We report 5 infants with cloaca at birth who were identified prenatally by one or more of the following on prenatal ultrasound (US): ambiguous genitalia, a cystic pelvic/abdominal mass, hydronephrosis, ascites, a single umbilical artery, and oligohydramnios.

Results:

A cystic pelvic/abdominal mass and ambiguous genitalia were each observed in 3 cases by prenatal US. Ambiguous genitalia was observed in all 5 neonates at birth. There were 2 twin pregnancies (dichorionic/diamniotic and monochorionic/monoamniotic), with only 1 twin in a set affected with cloaca.

Conclusion:

Pediatricians should be alert to the prenatal US findings that may raise suspicion of a persistent cloaca to improve both prenatal counseling and family preparation.

Imaging of anorectal malformations in utero

PURPOSE

To document the imaging findings suggestive of anorectal malformation (ARMs) on prenatal US and MRI.

METHODS

Retrospective evaluation of the screening US and prenatal MRI exams of the rectum and ano-perineal region in normal fetuses and in patients with ARMs.

RESULTS

Examples showing the normal rectal and anoperineal anatomy on prenatal US and MRI exams and the imaging findings observed in different types of confirmed ARMS.

CONCLUSIONS

Prenatal diagnosis of ARMs requires both a systematic evaluation of the fetal pelvis and perineum and an appropriate knowledge of its suggestive imaging findings.

Prenatal imaging of anorectal malformations - 10-year experience at a tertiary center in Switzerland

BACKGROUND

Anorectal malformation is a spectrum of congenital defects of the distal bowel, mostly diagnosed at birth.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the prenatal imaging findings of anorectal malformations, explore the causes of the low rates of prenatal diagnosis, compare the accuracy of prenatal ultrasound (US) and magnetic resonnance imaging [MRI] and evaluate the relevance of information obtained at MRI.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Children treated for anorectal malformation at our hospital and with available prenatal studies were retrospectively identified and included in the study. We reviewed prenatal imaging exams, listed findings suggestive of the diagnosis, and compared results with the final classification.

RESULTS

Fourteen fetuses and neonates - eight with intermediate-high type anorectal malformation and six with cloacae - fulfilled the inclusion criteria. All had associated congenital anomalies. Prenatal exams included 13 US and 8 MRI exams, with 7 children having both exams. Suggestive findings for anorectal malformation were detected in 50% of the cases prenatally and in 85% upon review. They were prospectively detected in 31% and 50% of the cases at US and MRI and retrospectively in 62% and 100% at US and MRI, respectively. MRI was superior to US because it improved the diagnosis, especially in cloacae, and provided relevant additional information that changed management in two cases.

CONCLUSION

The most important signs suggesting anorectal malformation are an absent target sign and anomalous distal bowel wall and rectal fluid. Complementary prenatal MRI improves the diagnosis of anorectal malformation.

Prenatal and postnatal imaging techniques in the evaluation of disorders of sex development

Imaging of the reproductive tract is challenging and requires a general knowledge of congenital variations in anatomy. The anatomy of the developing fetus, whether a male phenotype or female phenotype, is also a dynamic process with many changes occurring during gestation. Families may ask details about the genitalia during prenatal imaging and when variations in what is thought to be normal are present, further investigation is sometimes needed to make sense of what is seen. This overview will describe categories of disorders of sex development (DSD), whether chromosomal or structural or both, and the current state of imaging of these anomalies.

The spectrum of cloacal malformations: how to differentiate each entity prenatally with fetal MRI

The term cloacal malformation is commonly used to describe the classic cloacal malformation where there is a single common urogenital and intestinal channel located at the expected site of the urethra. There is, however, a spectrum of cloacal abnormalities that differ from this classic type and are less well discussed in the radiologic and surgical literature. The aim of this pictorial essay is to familiarize radiologists with the anatomy, appropriate terminology and key prenatal imaging findings that differentiate the six entities that constitute the spectrum of cloacal abnormalities.

Transient Distention of Right Posterior Located Sigma, a New Sonographic Sign for the Prenatal Diagnosis of Anal Atresia

We describe a new sonographic sign for the detection of anal atresia in the early midtrimester on transvaginal sonography. In six cases of fetal anal atresia, the finding of a transient, distended, and right-sided sigmoid colon was observed at 13-16 weeks' gestation. Three cases have undergone pregnancy termination due to multiple anomalies. In the other three, the colonic distension resolved by 19 weeks' gestation. In two of these, the finding was isolated, and no other anomalies were detected. In all six cases, anal atresia or cloaca was confirmed on postabortal autopsy or after delivery. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 45:160-162, 2017.

Prenatal diagnosis of cloacal malformation

Persistent cloaca malformation is the most severe type of anorectal and urogenital malformation. Decisions concerning the surgical treatment for this condition are taken during the first hours of life and may determine the quality of life of these patients. Thus, prenatal diagnosis becomes important for a prompt and efficient management of the fetus and newborn, and accurate counseling of the parents regarding its consequences and the future of the baby. Careful evaluation by ultrasonography, and further in-depth analysis with MRI, allow prenatal detection of characteristic findings, which can lead to diagnose or at least suspect this condition. We reviewed our experience and the literature in order to highlight the most important clues that can guide the physician in the differential diagnosis.

Male cloaca malformation: rare variant of anorectal malformation

PURPOSE

Experience with male cloaca (MC), a single opening in perineum for passage of urine and meconeum is described.

METHODS

Cases of MC were ambispectively studied, prospectively from July 2007 to April 2015 and retrospectively for last three decades.

RESULTS

Seven cases of MC were identified, between the ages of newborn-4 years (median 10 days). Two missed cases underwent a colostomy, posterior sagittal anorectoplasty, and urethroplasty. Two cases underwent perineal urethrostomy and anoplasty followed by urethroplasty. In one case, part of the rectal wall was used to form urethral tube and urethrostomy. For three recent cases, posterior sagittal anorectourethroplasty was done with mobilization of rectal pouch and common channel, separation of common wall between the urethra and rectum, urethroplasty varying from 1.5 to 3 cm, perineal body reconstruction, perineal urethrostomy and anoplasty. Follow-up of 6 patients varied from 3 months to 23 years. One case is lost to follow-up. Three patients have completed repair. Complications included a discharging sinus and a urethral fistula in one case each. One patient died while awaiting urethroplasty. Two patients are awaiting formal urethroplasty.

CONCLUSION

With familiarity of varying anatomy of MC, early recognition can avoid a neonatal colostomy in selected patients.

Postnatal sonographic spectrum of prenatally detected abdominal and pelvic cysts

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this article is to illustrate the sonographic findings of a spectrum of neonatal abdominal and pelvic cystic lesions.

CONCLUSION

Neonatal abdominal and pelvic cystic lesions can arise from many organs, and they have a broad differential diagnosis. Distinctive sonographic findings may be present and can help establish the correct cause and guide proper management.

Cloaca in discordant monoamniotic twins: prenatal diagnosis and consequence for fetal lung development

Objective Describe a case of cloaca prenatally diagnosed in one of a set of monoamniotic twins. Study Design Retrospective review of a case. Results Cloaca is one of the most complex and severe degrees of anorectal malformations in girls. We present a discordant cloaca in monoamniotic twins. Fetal ultrasound showed a female fetus with a pelvic midline cystic mass, a phallus-like structure, a probable anorectal atresia with absence of anal dimple and a flat perineum, and renal anomalies. The diagnosis was confirmed by fetal magnetic resonance imaging postnatally. Conclusions The rarity of the malformation in a monoamniotic pregnancy, the difficulties of prenatal diagnosis, the pathogenic assumptions, and the consequences of adequate amniotic fluid for fetal lung development are discussed.

Female pseudohermaphroditism in a prenatally diagnosed cloacal malformation with hydronephrosis, dilated bladder, hydrometrocolpos, and oligohydramnios

OBJECTIVE

To present female pseudohermaphroditism in a prenatally diagnosed cloacal malformation.

CASE REPORT

A 29-year-old, primigravid woman referred for counseling at 17 weeks of gestation because of oligohydramnios and an intra-abdominal cyst in the fetus. The woman was not exposed to any virilizing agent during this pregnancy. She did not undergo any assisted reproductive technology for this pregnancy. Level II ultrasound showed a singleton with fetal biometry equivalent to 16 weeks, oligohydramnios, hydrometrocolpos, dilated bladder, and bilateral hydronephrosis. A diagnosis of cloacal malformation was made. The parents elected to terminate the pregnancy at 18 weeks of gestation. A 196-g fetus was delivered with a distended abdomen, a phallus-like structure, a small perineal opening below the phallus-like structure, and an imperforate anus. At birth, the fetus was misdiagnosed as a male with an imperforate anus and a perineal fistula. Cytogenetic analysis of the cord blood revealed a karyotype of 46,XX. Array comparative genomic hybridization analysis of the fetal tissues revealed no genomic imbalance. The phallus-like structure was an enlarged clitoris and contained accessory phallic urethra.

CONCLUSION

Prenatal diagnosis of cloacal malformation with ambiguous genitalia should be paid attention to avoid misdiagnosis of a male with an imperforate anus and a perineal fistula. Cytogenetic analysis is helpful to determine the sex under such circumstances.

Anorectal Malformations: Finding the Pathway out of the Labyrinth

Anorectal malformations (ARMs) are a complex group of congenital anomalies involving the distal anus and rectum, as well as the urinary and genital tracts in a significant number of cases. Most ARMs result from abnormal development of the urorectal septum in early fetal life. In most cases, the anus is not perforated and the distal enteric component ends blindly (atresia) or as a fistula into the urinary tract, genital tract, or perineum. ARMs are also present in a great number of syndromes and associations of congenital anomalies. The classification of ARMs is mainly based on the position of the rectal pouch relative to the puborectal sling, the presence or absence of fistulas, and the types and locations of the fistulas. All of this information is crucial in determining the most appropriate surgical approach for each case. Imaging studies play a key role in evaluation and classification of ARMs. In neonates, clinical and radiologic examinations in the first 3 days of life help determine the type of ARM and the need for early colostomy. In older children, preoperative pelvic magnetic resonance imaging is the most efficient diagnostic method for evaluating the size, morphology, and grade of development of the sphincteric musculature.

Update on the management of anorectal malformations

Thirty-three years ago, on 10 August 1980, in Mexico City, the first patient with an anorectal malformation was operated on using the posterior sagittal approach. At that time it was not obvious that we were actually opening a "Pandora's box" that continues to give many positive surprises, a few disappointments, and the constant hope that each day we can learn more about how to improve the quality of life of children born with all different types of anorectal malformations. In November 2012, patient number 3000 in our database was operated in the city of Cochabamba, Bolivia; during one of our International Courses of Anorectal Malformations and Colorectal Problems in Children. The goal of this article is to give a brief update on the current management of patients with anorectal malformation, based on the multiple lessons learned during this period.

Tissue engineering and ureter regeneration: is it possible?

Large ureter damages are difficult to reconstruct. Current techniques are complicated, difficult to perform, and often associated with failures. The ureter has never been regenerated thus far. Therefore the use of tissue engineering techniques for ureter reconstruction and regeneration seems to be a promising way to resolve these problems. For proper ureter regeneration the following problems must be considered: the physiological aspects of the tissue, the type and shape of the scaffold, the type of cells, and the specific environment (urine). 
This review presents tissue engineering achievements in the field of ureter regeneration focusing on the scaffold, the cells, and ureter healing.

Cystic malformation of lower female genital tract resulting in hydrops fetalis: a case report

Genitourinary tract malformations causing hydrops fetalis are rare. The authors report a case of a female delivered at 32 weeks gestational age following a prenatal diagnosis of an abdominopelvic cystic mass with hydrops fetalis. The neonate was persistently hypoxic with unstable cardiovascular status and survived only 7 days. At autopsy, a cystic malformation replaced the vagina and uterus, associated with lower vaginal atresia and anorectal agenesis. The cyst had interfered with the normal process of Müllerian duct fusion, leading to a longitudinal vaginal septum and bifurcation of endocervix, with absent uterus and fallopian tubes. The urinary bladder was compressed by the cyst, resulting in bilateral hydronephrosis. The cyst impeded the inferior vena caval and umbilical venous circulations and impinged upon the thoracic cavity with resultant pulmonary hypoplasia. This malformation, which might be termed "cystic dysplasia" of the vagina, represents an extreme form of hydrometrocolpos that resulted in hydrops fetalis.

Cloacal malformation: embryology, anatomy, and prenatal imaging features

Cloacal malformation is a rare but important anomaly. Prenatal diagnosis is possible with knowledge of the distinctive imaging features. The purpose of this case series is to illustrate characteristic prenatal sonographic and magnetic resonance imaging features of cloacal malformation using imaging from 6 cases seen at a single academic center to augment published data. The imaging feature common to all cases was a central cystic pelvic mass containing a characteristic fluid-fluid level. Additional anomalies include uterine and vaginal duplication, hydronephrosis, and lumbosacral anomalies. Prenatal magnetic resonance imaging showed the absence of the normal T1-hyperintense meconium-filled rectum in all cases. Prenatal diagnosis may affect immediate neonatal care (eg, immediate drainage of hydrocolpos) with an ultimate improved outcome.

Prenatal counseling for cloaca and cloacal exstrophy—challenges faced by pediatric surgeons

INTRODUCTION

With the advance of prenatal imaging, more often pediatric surgeons are called for prenatal counseling in suspected cases of cloaca or cloacal exstrophy. This presents new challenges for pediatric surgeons since no specific guidelines have been established so far. The purpose of this review is to analyze our experience in prenatally diagnosed cloaca or cloacal exstrophy and to provide some guidelines for prenatal counseling of these complex congenital anomalies.

METHODS

A retrospective review of the medical charts of patients with prenatally diagnosed cloaca and cloacal exstrophy who received postnatal care in our institution between July 2005 and March 2012 was performed. Representative images of prenatal studies were selected from 13 cases to illustrate different scenarios and the recommendations given. In addition, a review of the literature was performed to support our advice to parents.

RESULTS

Eleven patients were female and two patients were male. The postnatal diagnoses were cloacal exstrophy (6), cloaca (5), posterior cloaca variant (1), and covered cloacal exstrophy (1). The selected abnormal prenatal imaging findings in these 13 patients included hydronephrosis (12), neural tube defect (8), omphalocele (7), lack of meconium at expected rectal location (7), vertebral anomaly (7), non-visualize bladder (5), distended bladder (5), hydrocolpos (4), dilated or echogenic bowel (3), umbilical cord cyst (3), separated pubic bones (2), and the "elephant trunk" sign (2). The prenatal diagnosis was correct in 10 cases, partially correct in two cases, and it was missed in one case. All parents received prenatal counseling depending on the specific diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

The continuous technologic innovations in prenatal imaging make it possible to prenatally diagnose more complex anomalies including cloaca and cloacal exstrophy with increased levels of confidence and enhance the benefit of prenatal counseling. Together, these allow the parents to be better prepared for the condition and the care team to provide the best possible initial management in order to improve the outcomes of these challenging patients.

Evaluation of the perianal muscular complex in the prenatal diagnosis of anorectal atresia in a high-risk population

OBJECTIVES

To investigate whether sonographic identification of the fetal perianal muscular complex (PAMC) is of value in the prenatal detection of anorectal atresia in a high-risk population.

METHODS

During an 8-year study period, a total of 189 pregnancies at high risk for fetal anorectal atresia were prospectively examined for the presence/absence of the PAMC on axial ultrasound views of the fetal perineum. The prenatal findings were confirmed postnatally or at the time of postmortem examination.

RESULTS

The median gestational age at examination was 27 (range, 15-37) weeks. The PAMC was identified in 175 fetuses, all of which had a normal anorectal canal at the time of delivery or at postmortem examination. The PAMC was not identified prenatally in the 14 remaining cases, and the anus was absent in 11 fetuses with anorectal atresia and in two with urorectal septum malformation sequence. There was one false-positive case, in which the anus was anatomically and functionally normal but ectopically located, opening into the vaginal vestibule. Among these 14 cases of anorectal malformation, prenatal dilatation of the distal bowel was seen in nine (64.3%) and intraluminal calcified meconium or enterolithiasis in five (35.7%). Overall, absent PAMC on prenatal sonography in this high-risk population had a sensitivity of 100%, specificity of 99%, true-positive rate of 93% and false-positive rate of 7% for the diagnosis of anorectal atresia.

CONCLUSIONS

In a high-risk population, the absence of PAMC seems to be a highly sensitive and specific sonographic marker for anorectal atresia. The role of routine sonographic identification of the PAMC at the second-trimester scan to screen for cases of isolated anal atresia remains to be determined.