Post Operative Anal Dilatations for the Prevention of Anal Strictures in Children With Anorectal Malformation: A Systematic Review

In brief

This systematic review examines whether routine postoperative anal dilatations effectively prevent stricture formation in children after anorectal malformation repair. The practice has been standard since 1982, but emerging evidence questions its necessity, prompting this synthesis of current literature on dilatation protocols and stricture prevention outcomes.

• Routine post-op anal dilatations have been standard ARM management since 1982, but recent evidence questions their necessity.
• Systematic review evaluates whether routine dilatations effectively prevent anal strictures after anorectal malformation repair.
• Current practice may lack robust evidence—clinicians should critically assess dilatation protocols in ARM postoperative care.

Written by the GCMD Library team from the article.