ano-rectal endosonography and manometry in paediatrics

The application of endoanal ultrasonography in children, as the use of highresolution anorectal manometry, is not recent at all. Nevertheless, differently from what happened in adults medicine, these two sophisticated investigations are prerogative of only few centers in Europe. Furthermore, there is an increased interest in both pediatricians and pediatric surgeons on these diagnostic technologies. This is the reasons why we felt the need to organize and lead, from Bologna, two internal workshops, respectively, in June and October 2020, with a surprising successful attendance. These two events involved some of the most important experts on congenital colorectal anomalies in Europe. The idea to write this monograph was the outcome of this successful experience; our wish was to create a starting point for future studies, research, and technical developments, with the aim of offering both young and experienced pediatric surgeons a comprehensive textbook and an updated review on this rapidly changing field. We hope that result will achieve such high goals. The text is divided into 16 chapters. The first chapters (Chaps. 1–3) were written in order to recall some basics of anorectal anatomy and physiology, necessary to understand and interpret these sophisticated endoanal investigations. The central chapters (Chaps. 4–13 and Chap. 16) explore the present main indications of endoanal ultrasonography and manometry. The last chapters (Chaps. 14, 15) instead are meant to show some innovative applications of these technologies, opening the reader’s mind on the future possibilities on this field. I wish to thank all those who have actively collaborated on the creation of this book, and all the authors, who for friendship and desire to pass on their knowledge, agreed to provide their contribution.