Summary
It is my contention that the present-day classification of anorectal malformations is confusing, incomplete and bears little correlation to the genesis of the embryologic abnormality leading to such defects.
The embryology of anorectal formation is discussed with special reference to the formation of the urorectal septum and paramesonephric ducts.
Defects of the urorectal septum are differentiated into three strata to account for the resulting fistulas seen in the newborn infant.
A classification of anorectal malformations, including the type of fistulas, based on the embryologic defect, is presented.
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Gregory, I.L. Embryologic considerations in anorectal malformations. Dis Colon Rectum 11, 223–228 (1968). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02617300
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02617300