Posterior Sagittal Anorectoplasty

Also known as: PSARP, pull-through procedure.

What is posterior sagittal anorectoplasty?

Posterior sagittal anorectoplasty is a surgical procedure used to repair birth defects related to the passing of stool through the rectum and anus. Anorectal malformations, cloacal malformation and Hirschsprung's disease are just a few of the conditions treated by the procedure.

What happens during the procedure?

The precise nature of the procedure will vary based on the nature and severity of the problem. The procedures are done using a device called a laparoscope to minimize the invasiveness of the procedure. They are done under general anesthesia, and they involve using the laparoscope and special tools to cut and reposition the rectum and anus before reattaching everything.

Is any special preparation needed?

The patient will typically need to avoid food, drink and certain medications prior to the procedures. X-rays and other imaging tests will also be needed beforehand.

What are the risk factors?

Bleeding, infection, blockage of the bowel, constipation, incontinence and a failure of the procedure to fix the problem are all potential risks of posterior sagittal anorectoplasty.

Reviewed by: Juan L Calisto, MD

This page was last updated on: June 21, 2019 12:41 AM