Rectal Atresia and Rectal Ectasia

Abstract

Rectal atresia is a rare type of anorectal malformation (ARM) constituting 1–2% of the ARM (Table 12.1). However, an incidence of 14% was reported from the southern part of India at one stage. The anomaly is no longer as common, even in that region. The male:female ratio is 7:3. In fact, because of its rarity, many pediatric surgeons have not had the chance to see and manage such cases. Rectal atresia is characterized by the presence of the proximal rectum, which ends at or above the pubococcygeal (PC) line, and a well-formed distal anus that is in its normal location and has a normal appearance, which is about 1–3 cm in depth. The two pouches may be connected to each other by a fibrous strand that may be hugged by the puborectalis sling. Unlike other ARM, the anal canal and lower rectum are well surrounded by the sphincter complexes and hence the outcome after surgery is good.