Anorectal Malformations

May 12, 2026

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Anorectal malformations (ARM) are rare congenital disorders of the anus and rectum with a broad spectrum from minimally displaced anal canal formation to complex fusion involving the anorectum, vagina, and urethra alongside hypoplastic sphincter and pelvic floor structures. Aberrant hindgut septation and cloacal membrane abnormalities during gestational weeks 6 to 9 underpin developmental outcomes. Clinical diagnosis occurs shortly after birth through careful perineal inspection, while prenatal detection remains uncommon. Treatment relies on surgical correction, with posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (introduced in 1982) as the central reconstructive approach. Advances in minimally invasive and sphincter- and perineum-sparing techniques aim to reduce iatrogenic injury, yet further progress in functional outcomes, quality of life, and prenatal diagnostics requires continued research.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryHealthcare

FormatPDF

Pages21

Reading Time53 min

May 12, 2026

Upload by Violet