Findings of pelvic musculature and efficacy of laparoscopic muscle stimulator in laparoscopy-assisted anorectal pull-through for high imperforate anus.

BACKGROUND: Laparoscopic findings of levator muscle and the efficacy of laparoscopic muscle stimulator (LMS) in infants with high imperforate anus have not been reported.
METHODS: Twelve patients underwent laparoscopically assisted anorectoplasty for high imperforate anus. Following laparoscopic dissection of the distal rectum and division of the fistula, levator muscles in the pelvic floor were stimulated with a 5-mm-diameter LMS. Dilatation was done by inserting a guidewire and balloon catheter through the center of the levator muscle sling and muscle complex. Rectal pull-through and anastomosis between the rectum and anus were successfully completed.
RESULTS: LMS showed good contraction of levator muscles and enhanced accurate midline placement of pull-through rectum. LMS was particularly useful in observing weak muscles in infants with rectovesical fistula.
CONCLUSIONS: Laparoscopy and LMS offer excellent visualization of the pelvic musculature and precise tract of rectal pull-through. Fecal continence will be assessed by long-term follow-up.