Cloacal exstrophy

A child with cloacal exstrophy is typically born with many intra-abdominal structures exposed. Although it is a serious condition, and requires a series of operations, the long-term outcome is good for many children.

In cloacal exstrophy, a portion of the large intestine lies outside of the body, and on either side of it—and connected to it—are the two halves of the bladder. In boys, the penis is usually flat and short with the exposed inner surface of the urethra on top. The penis is sometimes split into a right and left half. In girls, the clitoris is split and there may be one or two vaginal openings.

How does Children’s Hospital Boston treat cloacal exstrophy?

Cloacal exstrophy is corrected through a series of operations. Children’s physicians and surgeons have extensive experience in repairing cloacal exstrophy and supporting you and your baby throughout the process.