NICU
Neonates, Infant, Newborn, Baby, Preemie
Imperforate Anus
What is Imperforate Anus?
An imperforate anus is the absence of the anus in an infant. This is a congenital defect that happens during development in the uterus. With an imperforate anus, the baby has no way to excrete stool from his or her body.
Treatment
Surgery is necessary to repair the defect. Further surgery may be required if the rectum is found to be connected to other organs in the body. Frequently, a colostomy is necessary after surgical repair. The colostomy is not permanent, and may be removed after the defect is healed and repaired.
See also:
• Medline - Imperforate Anus
• University of Michigan Department of Surgery - Imperforate Anus