We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Health

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What is an Imperforate Anus?

Marjorie McAtee
By
Updated: Jan 28, 2024

Imperforate anus, also known as anal atresia, is a congenital malformation of the anus and rectum. There are a few types of imperforate anus, including cases where the anus is nonexistent, in the wrong place, or blocked by a membrane of skin. In more severe cases, the rectum, or lowest part of the lower intestine, is not attached to the anus at all. There might instead be an abnormal opening known as a fistula that allows stool to pass from the rectum into the bladder or vagina or out of the perineum. Sometimes, there is no fistula, and, if the rectum isn't connected to the anus either, then there is no passage left at all to allow stool out of the body.

The birth defect known as imperforate anus is considered fairly common, affecting one in 5,000 babies. It is usually discovered durng the physical exam given at birth. This condition can make it difficult or impossible for babies to move their bowels, and can lead to fecal incontinence, constipation and bowel obstruction. Surgery is almost always required to correct this condition, but surgery can be more or less complex, depending on the exact nature of each case.

Rectoperineal malformation is a type of imperforate anus that occurs when the anus is present and connected to the rectum, but nevertheless located in the wrong place. This type of imperforate anus usually causes the anus to develop too close to the genitals, and the anus may also be the wrong size. If the anus is too narrow or is in the wrong position, the infant can suffer chronic constipation, and treatment involves surgically re-positioning the anus to a more appropriate location. Sometimes, the anus is present, appropriately sized, and in the right location, but blocked by a membrane of skin. Surgeons can open this membrane to allow the baby to pass stool.

If the rectum is not connected to the anus, the infant may need a series of corrective surgeries, and may need to wear a colostomy bag for a time. Any fistulas connecting the rectum to the bladder, vagina, or perineum generally need to be closed. If the baby is born without an anus, one may need to be surgically constructed.

WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Marjorie McAtee
By Marjorie McAtee
Marjorie McAtee, a talented writer and editor with over 15 years of experience, brings her diverse background and education to everything she writes. With degrees in relevant fields, she crafts compelling content that informs, engages, and inspires readers across various platforms. Her ability to understand and connect with audiences makes her a skilled member of any content creation team.
Discussion Comments
Marjorie McAtee
Marjorie McAtee
Marjorie McAtee, a talented writer and editor with over 15 years of experience, brings her diverse background and education to everything she writes. With degrees in relevant fields, she crafts compelling content that informs, engages, and inspires readers across various platforms. Her ability to understand and connect with audiences makes her a skilled member of any content creation team.
Share
https://www.wise-geek.com/what-is-an-imperforate-anus.htm
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.