Prone cross-table lateral view: an alternative to the invertogram in imperforate anus.

The prone cross-table lateral radiograph provides equal or sometimes better information, compared to the invertogram, for demonstration of the level of rectal atresia in neonates. Easy positioning, better cooperation of the patient, elimination of the effect of gravity, and better delineation of the rectal gas shadow are the advantages of the prone lateral view. Among the 45 cases compared, equal findings were noted in 37, but in eight babies the level of rectal atresia was more caudal in the prone radiograph than in the invertogram.