Sacral neuromodulation for fecal incontinence and constipation in adult patients with anorectal malformation--a feasibility study in patients with or without sacral dysgenesis.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate both the feasibility and effectiveness of sacral neuromodulation for fecal incontinence and constipation in adult patients who had undergone surgical repair of anorectal malformations (ARM).

Methods: Patients with ARM with or without sacral dysgenesis who presented with fecal incontinence, constipation, or combined symptoms were treated with sacral nerve stimulation (SNS). Success of SNS was assessed by scores preoperatively and after a 3-week test period: Cleveland Clinic Incontinence Score (CCI), Surgical Working Group for Coloproctology (CACP) continence score, German version of the Fecal Incontinence Quality of Life Scale, and Cleveland Clinic Constipation Score (CCCS).

Hirschsprung disease in the older child: diagnostic strategies.

Background: Hirschsprung disease is usually diagnosed in patients who are younger than 1 year; but in some individuals it is found later in childhood.

Objective: This retrospective study is focused on clinical signs and symptoms of Hirschsprung disease in older children.

Materials And Methods: Patients with Hirschsprung disease were included in the study if they were older than 14 months at the time of diagnosis.

Unexpected results of a nationwide, treatment-independent assessment of fecal incontinence in patients with anorectal anomalies.

Purpose: To determine the anorectal function in patients with anorectal malformations (ARM) in order to facilitate patient counseling and follow-up.

Methods: Data were collected by the German network for urorectal malformations (CURE-Net) according to the International Krickenbeck consensus. Questionnaires on bowel function and a defecation protocol were completed by the families/patients.

Sexual function in adults with anorectal malformation: psychosocial adaptation. German Network for Congenital Uro-REctal Malformations (CURE-Net).

Purpose: The aim of the German Network for Congenital Uro-REctal Malformations (CURE-Net) is to collect data of affected patients with anorectal malformation (ARM) to investigate molecular causes, clinical implications and psychosocial outcome. The current issue was to examine sexual function and to explore psychosocial adaptation in adults with ARM.

Methods: This qualitative study using narrative inquiry is part of a larger multi-center study of clinical queries and quality of life in patients with ARM.

Postoperative complications in adults with anorectal malformation: a need for transition. German Network for Congenital Uro-REctal Malformations (CURE-Net).

Purpose: The aim of the German Network for Congenital Uro-REctal malformations (CURE-Net) is to collect data of affected patients with anorectal malformation (ARM) to investigate molecular causes, clinical implications and psychosocial outcome. The current issue was to examine the transition to adulthood in adults with ARM and to explore condition-related needs and skills required.

Methods: This qualitative study is part of a larger multi-center study of clinical queries and quality of life in patients with ARM.

German network for congenital uro-rectal malformations: first evaluation and interpretation of postoperative urological complications in anorectal malformations.

Objective: The aim of the German Network for Congenital Uro-REctal Malformations is to collect data of affected patients with anorectal malformation (ARM) or extrophy-epispadias complex, and to investigate molecular causes, clinical implications, and psychosocial outcome. The current issue was to assess the postoperative sequelae related to lower urinary tract dysfunction in patients with ARM.

Materials And Methods: Two hundred and sixty-seven patients with ARM (112 females, 155 males, median age 6 years, range 0-56 years) were investigated via standardized case report forms comprising interview, analysis of medical data, and personal questionnaires.