- Pediatric Surgery
- Understanding Cloaca Malformation
Understanding Cloaca Malformation
A cloacal malformation is a rare birth defect affecting the development of a female infant’s urinary, rectal, and genital systems. Typically, areas form separate openings – the urethra for urination, the vagina, and the anus for the evacuation of stool. In children with a cloacal malformation, these structures fail to fully separate during fetal development and share a single outlet.
How it is Diagnosed
This rare condition occurs in about 1 in 25,000 newborn females. The exact cause of a cloaca malformation is unknown but can sometimes be detected during a prenatal ultrasound. If a cloaca is diagnosed during pregnancy, the fetus is monitored throughout the pregnancy with follow-up imaging procedures.
A cloacal malformation is usually identified immediately after birth during a physical examination. It can also be detected if the baby’s first bowel movement does not occur or passes out of the wrong opening. Other signs physicians look for are:
- The baby does not have a visible anus
- An abnormal opening or absence of a vagina
- A single opening in the baby’s pelvic area
- Unusual appearance of external genitalia
Surgical Solutions
Cloacal malformations are treated with surgery. Because cloacal malformations vary based on the severity of the condition, surgeries are tailored to each individual. A multidisciplinary team of surgeons specializing in urology, pediatric gynecology, and pediatric surgery is often required.
After surgery, multidisciplinary follow-up through childhood is important. With successful treatment and follow-up care, most individuals can achieve social continence of stool and urine in childhood and have a good quality of life.
For treatment of cloacal conditions, explore our Comprehensive Congenital Colorectal Program.
Please visit our pediatric surgery page to schedule a visit or learn more about our physicians and services.
