Imperforate anus is a congenital malformation of the anus and rectum, affecting one in 5,000 babies. Surgery is required to correct the condition, which can cause difficulties in bowel movement and lead to fecal incontinence, constipation, and bowel obstruction. There are different types of imperforate anus, including cases where the anus is non-existent, in the wrong place, or blocked by a skin membrane.
Imperforate anus, also known as anal atresia, is a congenital malformation of the anus and rectum. There are a few types of imperforate anus, including cases where the anus is non-existent, in the wrong place, or blocked by a skin membrane. In severe cases, the rectum, or the lowest part of the lower intestine, is not attached to the anus at all. Instead, there may be an abnormal opening known as a fistula that allows stool to pass from the rectum into the bladder or vagina or out of the perineum. Sometimes, there is no fistula, and if the rectum is not connected to the anus either, there is no passageway left for stool to pass out of the body.
The birth defect known as an imperforate anus is considered quite common, affecting one in 5,000 babies. It is usually discovered during the physical exam given at birth. This condition can make it difficult or impossible for babies to move their bowels and can lead to fecal incontinence, constipation, and bowel obstruction. Surgery is almost always required to correct this condition, but surgery can be more or less complex, depending on the exact nature of each case.
A rectoperineal malformation is a type of imperforate anus that occurs when the anus is present and connected to the rectum, but is nevertheless in the wrong place. This type of imperforate anus usually causes the anus to grow too close to the genitals, and the anus may also be the wrong size. If the anus is too narrow or in the wrong position, the child may suffer from chronic constipation and treatment involves surgically repositioning the anus into a more appropriate position. Sometimes, the anus is present, of adequate size and in the right location, but blocked by a skin membrane. Surgeons can open this membrane to allow the baby to pass stool.
If the rectum is not connected to the anus, your child may need a series of corrective surgeries and may need to wear a colostomy bag for some time. Any fistulas that connect the rectum to the bladder, vagina, or perineum generally need to be closed. If your baby is born without an anus, it may need to be surgically reconstructed.
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