A rare congenital malformation where the urethra ends blindly which makes it unuseable by the body to eliminate urine. This usually results in death unless surgical intervention provides alternative communication between the bladder and the amniotic sac. In rare cases, there is an abnormal opening between the bladder and the rectum which allow the urine to drain. The inability of the fluid to pass out of the body of the fetus results in a reduced amount of amniotic fluid which in turn affects the development of the lungs. See also Atresia of urethra
