To analyze congenital anomalies, especially musculoskeletal anomalies, in patients with VATER association.

Fifteen patients who were admitted to our hospital from Jan. 1990 to Dec. 1997, and with more than three of the major criteria of VATER association, were included in this study. Major criteria were vertebral anomalies, imperforated anus, tracheoesophageal anomalies, radial side anomalies, renal anomalies and congenital heart anomalies.

Seven boys and 8 girls with VATER association were included. The follow-up period, except for 4 cases who died, was 6 years and 8 months on average (from 2 years and 3 months to 12 years and 7 months). Twelve patients had congenital heart disease, and 11 patients had tracheoesophageal anomalies and imperforated anus, 8 had vertebral anomalies, and radial side anomalies and renal anomalies were detected in 6 patients each. Congenital rib anomalies were the most common.

Orthopedic surgeons who address vertebral or radial side anomalies in patients with VATER association need to predict other possible anomalies and should have enough knowledge to treat these conditions.