Skip to main content
The Division of Colorectal & Pelvic Reconstruction has a wide variety of resources available to help you understand the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of your child's condition.

Make an Appointment

For more information about the conditions we treat, or to schedule an appointment or get a second opinion, please call 202-476-2656 or email our team.

Anorectal Malformations

    Anorectal Malformations

    Anorectal malformations, such as imperforate anus, are birth defects that occur when a baby's anal opening and rectum do not develop properly.

    Rectooperational fistula diagram

    Constipation and Incontinence

      Chronic Constipation

      Chronic constipation lasts for weeks or even months and can lead to serious issues such as fecal incontinence (loss of bowel control) and problems with motility (slow or abnormal intestinal contractions).

      Functional Constipation and Fecal Incontinence

      Learn about functional constipation and fecal incontinence in children, including its definition, causes, symptoms and treatment.

      Cloacal Malformations

        Cloacal Malformations

        A cloacal malformation, which occurs in a female fetus, is when the rectum, vagina and urinary tract form a single channel known as a cloaca, rather than three separate openings.

        Cloaca with a very high rectum

        Hirschsprung's Disease

          Hirschsprung's Disease

          Hirschsprung's disease is a rare birth defect that affects the nerve cells in the large intestine.

          Spine Related Issues

            Fecal and Urinary Incontinence Related to the Spine

            Fecal and urinary incontinence is common in children who have certain congenital diseases related to the spine that can interfere with bowel and urologic function.

            Colorectal Care Resources

            Educational Videos

            After your visit, your colorectal physician may prescribe certain at-home care options. This series of educational videos provides detailed instructions and the information you need to assist your child.

            Getting Ready for Colorectal Surgery

            Learn how you can help your child prepare for colorectal surgical procedures.

            Specialized Diets

            Depending on your child's condition, they may require a specific diet. Learn what foods we recommend your child eat or avoid for a laxative, constipating or water fiber diet.

            Caring for Your Child’s Colorectal Disorder

            Colorectal disorders can be very complex and require different types of care throughout a child’s lifetime. Learn how to care for your child's colorectal disorder at any age.