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Imperforate anus repair
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Surgical repair involves creating an opening for passage of stool. Complete absence of an anal opening requires emergency surgery for a newborn.
All surgical repairs are done while the infant is deep asleep and pain-free (using 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 a more complex anal repair.
The anal repair involves an abdominal incision, through which the colon is loosened from its attachments in the abdomen. Through an anal incision, the rectal pouch is pulled down into place, and the anal opening is completed. The colostomy may be closed during this stage or may be left in place for a few more months and closed at a later stage.
A major challenge for the surgeon (regardless of the type of defect) is finding, using, or creating adequate nerve and muscle structures around the rectum and anus to provide the child with the capacity for bowel control.
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The information provided herein should not be used for diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Copyright 2000 adam.com, Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
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