Anorectal malformation in adulthood: a systematic review of biological, psychological, and sociological outcomes and experiences

Clinical Snapshot

Key Findings

• Effect Size: Not applicable - descriptive review

• Primary Outcome: Biopsychosocial challenges and supports in adults with anorectal malformations

• Nnt Or Sensitivity: Most frequent biological challenge: surgical intervention; most frequent psychological challenge: psychosexual concerns; most frequent sociological challenge: navigating complex health systems

• Confidence Interval: Not provided

Clinical Application

Identifies need for multidisciplinary care including social work and psychology services, feasible within Australian healthcare system Highly relevant to Australian practice - addresses healthcare transition gaps, aligns with RACGP guidelines for chronic disease management, and identifies opportunities for allied health intervention within current healthcare framework Australian adults with anorectal malformations requiring transition from pediatric to adult healthcare services

Abstract

PURPOSE: Anorectal malformations are congenital anomalies involving the rectum, anus, genital, and urinary tracts, and occur in approximately one in 5000 live births. A lack of transition from pediatric to adult health services means little is known about how this condition is experienced in adulthood. The purpose of this review was to discover biopsychosocial challenges and supports experienced by adults living with anorectal malformation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A systematic quantitative literature review was the preferred method to collect and analyze data. Articles included in the review were sorted into purpose-built datasets, with data coded into biopsychosocial themes and patterns. RESULTS: The most frequently reported biological challenge was surgical intervention; the most frequently reported support was positively framed continence management. The most common psychological challenges were psychosexual concerns such as sexual anxiety, and the most common supports were interventions focused on improving self-perception. The most reported sociological challenge was navigating complex health systems, and the most reported support was forming meaningful relationships. CONCLUSION: Biopsychosocial outcomes experienced by adults born with anorectal malformation remain largely unknown. Social work and psychology can provide therapeutic interventions that enhance emotional wellbeing, psychosocial functioning, and patient-led care.

References

1. 1.Rane, E., Bloom, J., Chan, X. W. C., & Harris, P. (2026). Anorectal malformation in adulthood: a systematic review of biological, psychological, and sociological outcomes and experiences. Pediatric Surgery International. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2015.02.004