Imperforate anus with rectourethral fistula | Figure 1
Imperforate anus with rectourethral fistula
Lateral image from a high-pressure distal colostogram in a neonate with an anorectal malformation shows contrast filling the sigmoid colon and rectum (red arrow), a rectourethral fistula (yellow arrow), and contrast in the urinary bladder (red arrowhead). A BB marks the expected location of the anus (yellow arrowhead). Rectourethral fistula is an expected findings in the setting of an imperforate anus. The high-pressure distal colostogram is used to identify the location and extent of the fistula to plan for corrective surgery. If high pressure is not used, the rectourethral fistula may not open. In some patients with Down syndrome, a fistula may not be present.