title: The impact of anorectal malformations on anorectal function and social integration in adulthood: report from a national database.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The impact of anorectal malformation (ARM) on bowel function and social, educational and occupational end-points was investigated in adult patients entered on a national database.
  
  
  METHODS
  Data from a national database of adult patients operated on between 1962 and 1999 for ARM were analysed. The database Malformations Ano-rectales et Pelviennes rares (MAREP) was part of a common information system, CEMARA, on rare congenital disorders. A self-administered questionnaire regarding bowel function, academic qualifications, employment and family status was mailed to patients. The type of ARM, subsequent follow-up and management including surgical interventions were retrospectively retrieved from medical records.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Of 210 adult patients on the registry since 2008, 68 were included in this study. Only three (8.5%) had had regular follow-up. All reported some disturbance in bowel function. The fertility rate of 1.5 children per woman did not differ from the general population.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Anorectal malformation ARM often leads to suboptimal bowel function in adulthood. This has an impact on social integration.
authors: Department of Surgery, Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, Singapore City, Singapore.
authors: S
authors: S
authors: Mantoo
authors: G
authors: G
authors: Meurette
authors: V
authors: V
authors: Wyart
authors: J
authors: J
authors: Hardouin
authors: C
authors: C
authors: Cretolle
authors: C
authors: C
authors: Capito
authors: S
authors: S
authors: Sarnacki
authors: G
authors: G
authors: Podevin
authors: P-A
authors: PA
authors: Lehur
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000071056:Anorectal Malformations; D001006:Anus, Imperforate / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000523:psychology / Q000601:surgery; D003248:Constipation / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000523:psychology; D004522:Educational Status; D004651:Employment / Q000523:psychology / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D005242:Fecal Incontinence / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D017533:Marital Status / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D012042:Registries; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012725:Sexual Behavior; D055815:Young Adult