Overview
Imperforate anus is a birth defect that develops in the womb during the fifth to seventh weeks of pregnancy. It is a condition in which the opening to the anus is missing or blocked thus making it difficult for the baby to pass stool normally from their body. It is a very serious condition requiring immediate treatment.
Symptoms
The signs and symptoms of imperforate anus are quite visible after birth. They include:
No Stool Passing in First 24 - 48 Hours
No Anal Opening
Anal Opening in Wrong Place
Swollen Abdomen
Causes
The most common causes of imperforate anus include:
- Family History
- Abnormal Development of Fetus
- Birth Defects such as VATER/ VACTERL Association, a syndrome in which there are Vertebral, Anal, Cardiac, Tracheal, Esophageal, Renal and Limb Abnormalities
Diagnosis
Other than regular physical examination, a doctor may require to perform some tests to determine the best way of treatment. The tests may include:
X-Ray
Spinal Ultrasound
MRI
Echocardiogram
When to See a Doctor
Make an appointment right away if any worrisome symptoms appear.
Treatment
The imperforate anus can only be treated through surgical procedures. A series of surgery is required to fix the anus. A colostomy is performed in order to connect the end of the large intestine to the abdomen wall so that the stool can be collected in a bag. The next procedure involves attaching the rectum to the anus. After a few months, another operation is performed to close the colostomy.
Surgeons at Curadors have successfully performed several such procedures over a period of 15 years. Our partnered facility, Maroof International Hospital has state-of-the-art operation theaters equipped with the world’s most advanced equipment to provide the best quality treatment to our patients.
Risks, Complications & Preventions
Children can experience problems in toilet training and constipation. Stool softeners or laxatives may help in relieving constipation later in life. A high fiber diet that includes fruits, vegetables, juices, whole-wheat grains, and cereals and regular follow-up with a doctor can help prevent any other complications.
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Dr. Faisal Murad
Chief of Surgery & Laparoscopic Surgery
M.B.B.S., MCPS, FCPS (Surgery), Fellowship Telemedicine
Dr. Mustafa Javed
Orthopedic Surgery
BSc, MBBS, MRCS (Edinburgh, UK), FRCS, Trauma & Orthopedics (Edinburgh, UK), CCT (Yorkshire, UK)