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Imperforate anus repair - Recovery

Alternative Names

Anorectal malformation repair; Perineal anoplasty

Expectations after surgery:

Most anorectal malformations can be corrected successfully with surgery. In most cases, patients recover with normal bowel function. The long-term outlook is excellent if the patient has no other pelvic problems.

Convalescence:

The child may spend several days in the hospital. The health care provider will use an instrument to dilate (stretch) the new anus to improve muscle tone and prevent narrowing -- this must be continued for several months. Use of stool softeners and a high-fiber diet are recommended throughout childhood.

  • Reviewed last on: 11/9/2007
  • Deirdre O’Reilly, M.D., M.P.H., Neonatologist, Division of Newborn Medicine, Children’s Hospital Boston and Instructor in Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.