Double termination of the alimentary tract in females: a report of 12 cases and a literature review.

Twelve female infants with double termination of the alimentary tract were reported. One patient had a high rectovaginal fistula, but in the other 11 cases the tract opened into the bowel uniformly at the level of the levator ani (anorectal-vestibular fistula). In these patients, diagnosis of the anatomical level of the fistula was made definitely with our radiological technique. Excision of not only the fistulous tract but also the anterior half of the rectum below the fistula is essential to achieve a cure without recurrence. The pathogenesis of this condition is discussed and the pertinent literature reviewed.