Available At: Motherhood Hospitals – Banashankari, HRBR, Kharadi | Motherhood Chaitanya Hospital – Sector 44, Chandigarh
If a baby has been diagnosed with an anorectal anomaly such as an improper functioning anus or rectum or if the baby is born with no bottom hole then, as a parent, it is helpful to learn more about the condition, complications from the condition, the treatment options and what to expect from the corrective procedures.
What is a pediatric anorectal malformation?
Understanding how the rectum and anus form and what happens when development is disrupted
The anus and rectum are important parts of the digestive system in the body. The rectum is a muscular tube connecting the large intestine to the anus. It stores digestive wastes until expelled. In males, it is present behind the bladder and prostate while in females it lies behind the vagina and uterus. So, though the rectum is present in males and females, its relation to other organs is different in both the genders.
The anus on the other hand is the opening on the outside of the body that expels the waste stored in the rectum. Any developmental disorders affecting the anus of newborn baby or the rectum during the fetal stage which hampers their proper functioning is called an anorectal malformations or anorectal anomaly. Pediatric anorectal malformations are congenital (by birth) conditions and are slightly more frequent in male infants than in females.
Complications of anorectal malformation
How this condition can affect the baby’s digestion and overall health
As the rectum and anus form a crucial part of the digestive system, a malfunctioning anus or rectum can cause:
- Intestinal blockages
- Bloating
- Swelling of the abdomen area
- Inability to pass stools
- Vomiting
Further, depending on the male or female anatomy, anorectal malformations may present itself differently because of the difference in surrounding organs. Therefore, the treatment procedures for anorectal malformations differ vastly in male and female children.
Diagnosis of anorectal malformation
Usually, the pediatrician can diagnose an anorectal anomaly while physically examining the newborn. The pediatrician may recommend further tests such as
- CT scans
- MRI
- Ultrasounds
- X rays
- Barium Enema tests
These tests may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and understand the extent of the condition, thereby helping the doctor to determine the treatment plan for your baby.
Anorectal malformation causes
When fetal development does not take place at the right time, it leads to anomalies like physical deformities, structural abnormalities and functional complications. Anorectal anomalies are birth defects that are a result of irregular fetal development. Though there is no specific reason for abnormal fetal development, genetics plays a crucial factor.
Anorectal malformation treatment
Surgical options to restore normal function and improve quality of life
Anorectal malformations present differently in male and female children, with different modalities of treatment. Typically, anorectal malformation surgery is the suggested treatment plan to rectify anorectal malformations. The procedures for surgical management of anorectal malformation differ vastly in male and female children.
Safe and reliable Anorectal malformation surgery at Motherhood hospitals
Motherhood hospitals offer expert anorectal anomaly surgery for newborns. Our team of pediatric surgeons with our state of the art health care facilities and high level neo natal services ensures safer and more reliable patient outcomes. From early diagnosis to imperforate anus treatment Motherhood Hospitals provides world class surgical treatment and after care for pediatric anorectal malformations. Trust Motherhood Hospitals for expert surgical care for your newborn.
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