[Magnetic resonance imaging of high anorectal malformations. A preliminary study apropos of 15 cases].

High level ano-rectal anomalies were evaluated by Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in 15 patients. One neonate and two infants were evaluated preoperatively. Sagittal slices identified properly the blind rectal end in the 3 cases. Associated anomalies (tethered spinal cord, right ectopic kidney in 1 case, recto-urinary fistula in another case, upper excretory dilatation in 2 cases) were found during the same examination. In the post-operative period (12 cases), major data were obtained on axial transverse slices. When pulled-through intestine is outside the levator sling, re-do-surgery can be indicated. MRI appears as an accurate tool to assess these anomalies.