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Imperforate anus

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Definition:

Imperforate anus is a congenital absence or obstruction of the anal opening.

Alternative Names:

Anorectal malformation; Anal atresia

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Imperforate anus is a malformation of the anorectal region that 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 malformations are caused by abnormal development of the fetus, and many are associated with other birth defects. Imperforate anus is a relatively common congenital malformation that occurs in about 1 out of 5,000 infants.

• Review Date: 8/11/2005
• Reviewed By: Joseph P. Hart, M.D., Marco Polo Traveling Fellow c/o Department of Vascular Surgery, A. Z. St. Blasius Hospital (Belgium). Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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