Imperforate anus repair is surgery to correct a birth defect involving the rectum and anus.

An imperforate anus defect prevents most or all stool from passing out of the rectum.

See also: Imperforate anus

How this surgery is performed depends on the type of imperforate anus. The procedures are done under general anesthesia, which means the infant is asleep and feels no pain during the procedure.

For mild imperforate anus defects:

• The first step involves enlarging the opening where the stool drains so stool can pass more easily.
• Surgery involves closing any small tube-like openings (fistulas), creating an anal opening, and putting the rectal pouch into the anal opening. This is called an anoplasty.
• The child must often take stool softeners for weeks to months.

Two surgeries are often needed for more severe imperforate anus defects:

• The surgeon will create an opening in the skin and muscle of the abdominal wall and attach the end of the large intestine to the opening. Stools will drain into a bag attached to the abdomen. This is called a colostomy.
• The baby is often allowed to grow for 3 - 6 months.
• For the second procedure, the surgeon may make a cut in the abdomen to detach and move the colon to a new position. A cut is made in the anal area to pull the rectal pouch down into place and create an anal opening.
• The colostomy will likely be left in place for 2 - 3 more months.

A major challenge for these repairs is finding, using, or creating nearby nerves and muscles so that the child can move the bowels normally.

The surgery repairs the defect so that stool can move through the rectum.