Imperforate anus is an abnormality present at birth, and characterized by the absence of the normal opening of the anus. Elimination of feces may not be possible until surgery is performed. In some cases the rectum opens into the lower part of the vagina in females, or close to the scrotum in males.

An imperforate anus or anorectal malformations ( ARMs) are birth defects in which the rectum is malformed. ARMs are a spectrum of different congenital anomalies which vary from fairly minor lesions to complex anomalies. [1] The cause of ARMs is unknown; the genetic basis of these anomalies is very complex because of their anatomical variability.