ERN eUROGEN Webinar 133: Anatomical and prenatal studies in anorectal malformations

This webinar was presented on 15 October and is part of the colorectal webinar series in collaboration of ERN eUROGEN and ERNICA. Speakers: Dr. Pim Sloots, pedatric surgeon at Erasmus MC in Rotterdam, the Netherlands Dr. Nina Peters, Prenatal physician also at Erasmus MC in Rotterdam, the Netherlands Dr. Annelieke Schepens-Franke, academic lecturer in anatomy and embryology at Radboudumc Dr. Yuichiro Miyake, associate professor in pediatric surgery at Department of Pediatric General and Urogenital Surgery, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan Anorectal malformations (ARM) are a group of congenital defects in the lower gastrointestinal tract, and early detection is critical for effective management and improved patient outcomes. Advances in prenatal imaging and anatomical understanding have significantly enhanced the early diagnosis and classification of ARM, allowing for better-informed treatment strategies. This webinar aimed to provide healthcare providers with essential knowledge on the anatomical aspects of ARM and the role of prenatal studies in detecting and managing these conditions. During this session, we explored the latest techniques in prenatal diagnosis and the anatomical features of ARM. The session also emphasized how these studies impact decision-making, surgical planning, and long-term care for affected children. Key topics included: • Overview of the anatomical classifications of anorectal malformations • The role of prenatal ultrasound in diagnosing ARM and assessing associated anomalies • Early detection of ARM: benefits and challenges in prenatal care • The surgical aspects The Colorectal webinar series covers all aspects of paediatric colorectal surgery. They are joint presentations between ERNs eUROGEN and ERNICA and are supported by both EUPSA and ARM-Net. eUROGEN is the European Reference Network for rare and complex urogenital diseases and conditions. Our multidisciplinary teams of experts are able to diagnose, suggest treatment or surgery, and then provide post-operative and transitional support. We have full members and affiliated partners across the majority of EU Member States. For more information or to contact us: Web: www.eurogen-ern.eu Email: [email protected] LinkedIn:   / ern-eurogen   Twitter/Instagram: @ERN_eUROGEN Facebook:   / erneurogen   YouTube: https://bit.ly/eUROGENyoutube ERN eUROGEN is a European Reference Network (ERN) approved by the ERN Board of Member States (BoMS). For more information about the ERNs and the EU health strategy, please see https://health.ec.europa.eu/european-... The ERNs are funded by the European Union. The views and opinions expressed in this webinar are those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or HaDEA. Neither the European Union nor HaDEA can be held responsible for them. ERNICA is the ERN for rare Inherited and Congenital (digestive and gastrointestinal) Anomalies (https://ern-ernica.eu). ARM-Net is a group of professionals and patient representatives that aim to exchange data and knowledge to improve clinical care and to perform research on congenital anorectal malformations (https://www.arm-net.eu). EUPSA promotes surgical care for the paediatric patients in Europe and enhances the capacity of its members to gain new knowledge to the benefit of their patients, along the highest ethical standards in paediatric surgery (www.eupsa.info). Timestamps: 00:00 CPMS & contact information 00:40 Introduction by ERN eUROGEN Programme Manager 04:45 Presentation by Dr. Annelieke Schepens-Franke 25:05 Presentation by Dr. Nina Peters 37:33 Presentation by Dr. Yuichiro Miyake 45:51 Discussion