Anorectal malformations

Anorectal malformations (ARMs) encompass a class of congenital malformations that range from minor defects to severe defects that can lead to lifelong bowel management difficulties. ARM is a relatively frequent abnormality of hindgut development with an estimated incidence of 1 in 2500 live births. There is a large variation in disorders that ranges from easily correctable disorders to complex cloacal defects or cloacal exstrophy that require significant surgical planning and aftercare. Most patients have good longterm results with approximately a 75% fecal continence rate overall. The most frequent defect in male patients is imperforate anus with a rectobulbar urethral fistula. The most frequent defect in female patients is a rectovestibular fistula.