Complications of anal atresia in newborns

Anal atresia in newborns may cause a variety of complications, including intestinal obstruction, infection and malnutrition. If these problems are not treated in time, they will seriously threaten life safety, so they need to be diagnosed and treated as soon as possible.

Anal atresia is caused by the failure of the rectum and anus to form a normal passage during the embryonic development stage of the newborn. This problem may be accompanied by other congenital abnormalities such as urethral fistula or vaginal fistula, which further increases the risk of complications. Intestinal obstruction is one of the most common complications. Since feces cannot be discharged, symptoms such as abdominal distension, vomiting, and poor appetite will occur. If not intervened in time, it may lead to intestinal perforation or peritonitis. Infection may also occur, especially when combined with urethral fistula, the infection may spread to the urinary system, causing urinary tract infection or even sepsis. Long-term inability to absorb nutrients normally may lead to malnutrition and growth retardation, and early intervention is required to avoid permanent damage.

Once the diagnosis of neonatal anal atresia is confirmed, timely treatment is the key. Surgery is the main method, which is usually divided into two situations: mild atresia can be directly reconstructed through "anoplasty"; moderate and severe atresia requires multi-stage surgical treatment, such as initial colostomy to relieve intestinal pressure and subsequent anal reconstruction. Special attention should be paid to infection prevention and nutritional support before and after surgery, such as providing sufficient calories through infusion, and strengthening the use of antibiotics and wound care after surgery. For children with combined urethral fistulas, additional urethral repair surgery may be required, and a catheter may be used to reduce the burden on the urinary system.

Neonatal anal atresia requires parents to actively cooperate with doctors and do long-term follow-up, paying attention to the child's postoperative defecation function recovery and growth. Parents should be careful to prevent wound infection during care, and pay close attention to whether there is abnormal fever, abdominal distension or defecation problems. If the child still has complications after surgery, contact the doctor immediately to ensure that the problem is resolved early. In the process of dealing with the disease, please show enough patience and care for the child, and provide him with a comfortable living environment and continuous psychological support as much as possible.