title: Prenatal perforation of the extraperitoneal part of the rectum, associated with a developmental defect of the pelvic floor.
abstract: Perforation of the extraperitoneal part of the rectum during foetal life is an exceptionally rare event. Two cases are reported where this has been associated with a para-rectal defect in the pelvic floor. It is postulated that in these instances, the rectal lesion is due to this abnormality. As a consequence of the perforation meconium extravasates into the buttock. This has a classic presentation which should be immediately recognised. Urgent rectal decompression, as an emergency measure before surgery, is required if further serious complications are to be prevented.
mesh_terms: D005119:Extravasation of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Materials / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006547:Hernia / Q000151:congenital* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D059685:Herniorrhaphy; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007416:Intestinal Perforation / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000601:surgery; D010388:Pelvis / Q000002:abnormalities*; D010502:Perineum / Q000002:abnormalities*; D010538:Peritonitis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D011859:Radiography; D012002:Rectal Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000601:surgery