Read more about this disease, some with Classification – Types – Signs and symptoms – Genetics – Pathophysiology – Diagnosis – Screening – Prevention – Treatment and management – Cures and much more, some including pictures and video when available.
An imperforate anus or anal atresia is a birth defect in which the rectum is malformed. Its cause is unknown.
When an infant is born with an anorectal malformation, it is usually detected quickly as it is a very obvious defect. Doctors will then determine the type of birth defect the child was born with and whether or not there are any associated malformations. It is important to determine the presence of any associated defects during the newborn period in order to treat them early and avoid further sequelae. There are two main categories of anorectal malformations: those that require a protective colostomy and those that do not. The decision to open a colostomy is usually taken within the first 24 hours of life.
Imperforate anus usually requires immediate surgery to open a passage for faeces. Depending on the severity of the imperforate, it is treated either with a perineal anoplasty[1] or with a colostomy.
There are several forms of imperforate anus:
Imperforate anus is usually present along with other birth defects—spinal problems, heart problems, tracheoesophageal fistula, esophageal atresia, renal anomalies, and limb anomalies are among the possibilities.[2]
Sonography can be used to determine the type of imperforate anus.[3]
[tubepress mode=’tag’, tagValue=’Imperforate anus’]