Master Imperforate Anus with Picmonic for Nursing RN

The cause is a random malformation of the developing fetus’ gut tube which happens in 1/5000 live births. There is no known cause and it does not run in families.

The infants will have no anal opening. Some neonates may have a urinary fistula and are often started on broad spectrum antibiotics.

Neonates will not have a first stool in the first 24 hours. Closely watch these infants for meconium in their urine, as fistulas may be present.

As these infants are unable to stool, their abdominal girth will increase. Surgical intervention is required to pass stool.

Immediate surgery is required for these infants for the passage of stool. Surgical interventions include anoplasty, a colostomy, posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP), or other pull-through abdominal surgeries.

Neonates will often have several surgeries to completely repair an imperforate anus over time. They often have long term complications most commonly fecal incontinence or constipation. They may require education, other programs, or medications like laxatives to understand and manage these complications.