Treating Imperforate Anus in Newborns: A Guide to Anorectal Malformation in India
Anorectal malformation in India (ARM) —also known as imperforate anus or absent anal opening —is a congenital defect in which the rectum and anus do not develop properly during early pregnancy. This condition prevents a newborn from passing stool normally and requires surgical intervention soon after birth. ARM is relatively rare, occurring in approximately 1 in every 5,000 live births , with a slightly higher incidence in male infants . What Happens in Anorectal Malformation? In a baby born with this condition, several abnormalitie s may be observed: The anal opening may be absent , misplaced, or too narrow. The rectum may end blindly or connect abnormally to the urinary tract , bladder , vagina , or vestibule , leading to infection risk or bowel obstruction . In severe cases, the rectum, urinary system, and reproductive organs may merge into a single common channel known as a cloaca , through which both urine and stool pass. How Is It Diagnosed? T...