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Imperforate anus repair
Definition:
Imperforate anus repair is surgery to correct birth defects involving malformation of the rectum and anus. Normally, the large intestine (colon) empties into a pouch-like portion of bowel (rectum). Through complex nerve and muscle structures, the rectum releases stool through the anus out of the body. Text Continues Below
Infants with imperforate anus defect, however, have malformations of the rectum and anus in which abnormal development leads to growth of skin over the anus and incomplete development of the rectum. As a result, these infants have either no opening through which stool can pass, or a very small opening that allows only a small amount of stool to pass out of the rectum. This very small opening is often accompanied by fistulas, which are abnormal channels that connect skin to bowel. Variations of the defect include: - Complete absence of an anal opening
- A small tube-like opening (fistula) from the bowel to the skin, vagina, or urethra
- Rectum ends above the pelvic nerve and muscle structures (high-type imperforate anus)
- Rectum extends completely or partially through the pelvic nerve and muscle structures (low-type imperforate anus)
Alternative Names:
Anorectal malformation repair; Perineal anoplasty Description:
Surgical repair involves creating an opening for the passage of stool. Complete absence of an anal opening requires emergency surgery for the newborn. Surgical repairs are performed while the baby is under general anesthesia. Surgery for a high-type imperforate anus defect usually involves creation of a temporary opening of the large intestine (colon) onto the abdomen to allow passage of stool. This is called a colostomy. The baby is allowed to grow for several months before attempting the more complex anal repair.
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