**1. Introduction**

Congenital malformations involving the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) can be broadly divided into upper and lower gut abnormalities (**Table 1**). Upper pathology involves the foregut tubes, which are proximal to the ligament of Treitz: the esophagus, stomach, duodenum, pancreas and hepatobiliary tract. Lower GIT anomalies include the mid and hindgut structures: the jejunum and ileum, which constitute the small bowel, the colon and anorectal malformations. Congenital anomalies can further be classified based on whether the defect is structural or functional. Structural anomalies result from either defective embryogenesis or intrauterine complications, such as ischemia. Functional defects have normal anatomy but disrupted flow of GIT contents. In most cases, structural defects adversely impact functional capability. This chapter reviews the clinical presentation, diagnostic work up and surgical management of upper and lower GIT congenital anomalies.


#### **Table 1.**

*Embryologic derivates of the gastrointestinal tract.*
