Anorectal Malformation Repair

Also known as: anorectal malformation surgery, imperforate anus repair, imperforate anus surgery.

What is anorectal malformation repair?

Anorectal malformation is a birth defect that adversely impacts the development of the anus and rectum. This can negatively affect or even prevent a baby from passing stools through the anus and rectum. Anorectal malformation repair is a surgical procedure to fix the problem.

What happens during the procedure?

The precise nature of the procedure will vary based on the nature and severity of the problem. Most procedures involve some removal of tissue or intestine and rejoining the remaining parts of the intestine or anus. The procedures are done under anesthesia and may be minimally invasive in many cases.

Is any special preparation needed?

The patient will typically need to avoid food, drink and certain medications prior to the procedures.

What are the risk factors?

Bleeding, infection, blockage of the bowel, constipation, incontinence and a failure of the procedure to fix the problem are all potential risks of anorectal malformation repair.


Reviewed by: Juan L Calisto, MD

This page was last updated on: November 11, 2020 02:18 PM

Colorectal Center

Specialized treatment for children, adolescents and young adults with abnormalities affecting the colon, anus, rectum, urinary tract and genitals.

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