Analysis of the potential risk factors for defecation problems and their bowel management based on the long-term bowel function in patients with persistent cloaca: results of a nationwide survey in Japan

This Japanese nationwide survey of 213 persistent cloaca patients identified sacral agenesis as a significant risk factor for long-term defecation problems after anorectoplasty. Patients with sacral anomalies require intensive bowel management strategies including antegrade continence enema and regular laxative therapy to achieve continence.