Imperforate anus

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Digestive system

Imperforate anus

Imperforate anus repair - series

Anorectal malformation; Anal atresia

The infant should undergo evaluation for other abnormalities, especially genital, urinary and spinal. Surgical reconstruction of the anus is required. If the rectum connects with other organs, repair of these organs will also be necessary. A temporary colostomy is often required.

The outcome is usually good with treatment, depending on the exact anatomy of the birth defect. Some affected infants may never develop adequate bowel control, depending on the location of the defect.

• Intestinal obstruction
• Bowel incontinence or constipation

This disorder is usually discovered when the newborn infant is first examined. Call your health care provider if a child that was treated for imperforate anus develops abdominal pain, or fails to develop any bowel control by the age of 3.

Review Date: 08/11/2005
Reviewed By: Joseph P. Hart, M.D., Marco Polo Traveling Fellow c/o Department of Vascular Surgery, A. Z. St. Blasius Hospital (Belgium). Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.