title: Antenatal rectal perforation presenting in the neonate.
abstract: Perforation of the rectum in the antenatal period is extremely rare. Three cases have been reported worldwide. Its aetiology and pathophysiology are poorly understood. Rapid recognition by its classical signs is mandatory as delay in diagnosis leads to serious morbidity. We report a fourth case, and make recommendations regarding management.
authors.affiliation: Department of Paediatric Surgery, Birmingham Children's Hospital, Steelhouse Lane, Birmingham, B4 6NH, UK.
authors.forename: Lakshmi
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Sundararajan
authors.forename: David
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Patel
authors.forename: Girish
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Jawaheer
mesh_terms: D003125:Colostomy / Q000379:methods; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005260:Female; D005315:Fetal Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis*; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007416:Intestinal Perforation / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000196:embryology / Q000601:surgery; D011247:Pregnancy; D012002:Rectal Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000196:embryology / Q000601:surgery