Perineal Fistula in Males
When the rectum opens in the perineum, it is a low malformation called perineal fistula. This is a benign condition that does not require a protective colostomy and has an excellent prognosis for normal bowel function.
Surgical repair involves a limited posterior sagittal anoplasty, which is usually performed during the newborn period. During the first 24 hours of life, these infants usually pass meconium through a small fistula orifice.
This orifice is located in the midline, anterior to the anal dimple, in the perineum, at the base of the scrotum or sometimes at the base of the penis. Sometimes the defect is a midline "black ribbon-like" subepithelial meconium fistula.
At other times the defect has a prominent midline skin tag located in the anal dimple, below which one can pass an instrument. This last defect is called a "bucket handle" malformation.
For more information or to request an appointment, please contact the Colorectal Center at Cincinnati Children's.
