Magnetic compression anastomosis for rectal atresia following necrotizing enterocolitis: A case report

RATIONALE: Rectal atresia caused by necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a serious and rare complication in children. Magnetic compression anastomosis (MCA) has been effectively applied in children with congenital oesophageal atresia and biliary atresia. Herein, we reported a case of successfully application of MCA in an infant with rectal atresia following NEC. PATIENT CONCERNS: A 30(+6) weeks premature birth female fetal infant was transferred to our neonatal intensive care unit due to premature delivery, low birth weight, and neonatal respiratory distress. On postpartum day 11, the infant developed abdominal distension and mucosanguineous feces. This infant was then clinically diagnosed as NEC. She underwent anesthesia and intestinal fistula operation on postpartum day 11 because of NEC. DIAGNOSIS: After 3 months, radiographic examination revealed rectal atresia and stricture. INTERVENTIONS: This infant was successfully treated with MCA following a cecum-rectal anastomosis and ileocecal valve was reserved. OUTCOMES: On postoperative day 9, she passed the 2 magnets per rectum. In addition, there were no difficult defecation or fecal incontinence or other short-term complications. After the 7-month follow-up, the patient had an excellent clinical outcome. LESSONS: MCA is a feasible and effective method for treating rectal atresia in infants.