Adult Obstetricians and Gynecologists Lack Knowledge of Anorectal Malformations-A Call for Action

Objective: Patients with anorectal malformations (ARMs) may have concurrent gynecologic abnormalities. As patients grow, they typically transition from pediatric subspeciality care and seek adult obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN)-related services. We aimed to assess adult OB/GYN physicians' knowledge, competency, and comfort regarding meeting the sexual and reproductive health care needs of patients with ARMs.

Methods: We performed a cross-sectional observational survey-based study of graduates from a single academic OB/GYN residency program from 2013 to 2022. Physicians were surveyed on experience, comfort, and challenges with caring for patients with ARMs and given a knowledge assessment. Descriptive and comparative statistics between those who did and did not complete a Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology (PAG) rotation were generated.

Results: There were 59 respondents (53.6%). Fewer than half (39.0%) reported caring for a patient with an ARM, an appendicovesicostomy (12.3%), or an appendicostomy (5.4%). Most felt uncomfortable (80.4%) or felt they lacked competence in caring for these patients (81.8%). Most (64.3%) felt that ARMs should be discussed in residency. Only 1 physician (1.7%) answered all questions in the knowledge assessment correctly; 33.9% did not answer any question correctly. On subgroup analysis, more physicians who had completed a pediatric and adolescent gynecology rotation recalled learning about ARMs (83.3% vs 51.9%, P = .03); however, there were no differences in experience, comfort, competence, or willingness to learn.

Conclusion: OB/GYN providers report a lack of knowledge and comfort in caring for patients with ARMs. Development of a standardized OB/GYN residency curriculum and education for practicing OB/GYN physicians is necessary to allow access to knowledgeable sexual and reproductive health for this patient population.