Health Encyclopedia and Tools

Back to Health Library Print This Page Print Email to a Friend Email

Digestive system

Imperforate anus

Imperforate anus repair - series
Imperforate anus repair - series
Imperforate anus
Definition:
Imperforate anus is a missing or blocked opening to the anus that is present from birth (congenital).

Alternative Names: Anorectal malformation; Anal atresia

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Imperforate anus may occur in several forms. The rectum may end in a blind pouch that does not connect with the colon. Or, it may have openings to the urethra, bladder, base of penis or scrotum in boys, or vagina in girls. A condition of stenosis (narrowing) of the anus or absence of the anus may be present.
The problem is caused by abnormal development of the fetus, and many forms of imperforate anus are associated with other birth defects. It is a relatively common condition that occurs in about 1 out of 5,000 infants.

Symptoms:
Missing or misplaced opening to the anus
Anal opening very near the vaginal opening in girls
No passage of first stool within 24 - 48 hours after birth
Stool passed by way of vagina, base of penis or scrotum, or urethra
Abdominal distention

Signs and tests:
An imperforate anus can be diagnosed with a physical exam.
A lower abdominal x-ray or contrast enema may be recommended.

Treatment:
The infant should be checked for other problems, especially those affecting the genitals, urinary tract, and spine.
Surgical reconstruction of the anus is needed. If the rectum connects with other organs, repair of these organs will also be necessary. A temporary colostomy is often required.

Support Groups:

Expectations (prognosis):
With treatment, the outcome is usually good. However, it depends on the exact problem. Some infants may never develop adequate bowel control.

Complications:
Intestinal obstruction
Bowel incontinence or constipation

Calling your health care provider:
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.

Prevention:
As with most birth defects, there is no known prevention.

Review Date: 6/25/2007
Reviewed By: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-Torresdale Hospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.