Diagnostic Imaging of Neonatal Anorectal Malformations: Emphasis on Discordant Cases and Implications for Surgical Planning

In brief

This study evaluates the accuracy of transperineal ultrasound versus traditional cross-table radiography for classifying anorectal malformations in neonates, focusing on discordant findings between modalities. Proper preoperative classification is critical for surgical planning, and understanding when imaging methods disagree helps surgeons choose the most reliable diagnostic approach.

• Cross-table radiography alone may misclassify anorectal malformation anatomy, impacting surgical approach selection.
• Transperineal ultrasound provides complementary anatomic detail that can resolve discordant findings from radiography.
• Accurate preoperative ARM classification is critical for optimal surgical planning in neonates.
• Discordant imaging findings between modalities warrant additional evaluation before definitive repair.
• Multimodal imaging improves diagnostic accuracy in complex neonatal anorectal malformations.

Written by the GCMD Library team from the article.