Urorectal Septum

The urorectal septum is a thin wall that develops in an embryo to separate the digestive system (rectum) from the urinary system (bladder and urethra). During fetal development, it's crucial for proper formation of the anus, rectum, and urinary tracts. If the septum doesn't form correctly or doesn't divide these regions properly, it can lead to congenital anomalies like fistulas or abnormal openings between the urinary and digestive systems. Understanding this structure helps explain some birth defects and guides surgical repair procedures.