Aetiology, evaluation and management of rectovaginal fistula: A rare entity and a major surgical challenge.

Autor: Stamatakos, Michael, Sargedi, K., Ntzeros, K., Mazis, D., Artopoulos, A., Vassiliou, P.
Zdroj: Hellenic Journal of Surgery; Mar2014, Vol. 86 Issue 2, p72-82, 11p
Abstrakt: Background: Rectovaginal fistulas occur as a complication of surgery or radiation therapy, an obstetrical trauma, malignant process and inflammatory bowel disease. These fistulas comprise 5% of all anorectal fistulas. The presenting symptoms vary according to the characteristics of the fistula and the underlying cause. Methods: This review article evaluates in detail each of those aspects from a clinician's perspective. Results: Symptoms referring to the aetiology and process of evaluating the location, length and diameter of the fistula are described here in detail as critical to selecting the appropriate surgical technique. However, successful fistula healing is much less than certain after every repair attempt, even in the most experienced hands. Nevertheless, re-operation is deployed in such cases. A diverting colostomy might also be needed as a last resort to relieve the symptoms. Morbidity of a rectovaginal fistula is increased, and from a psychosocial perspective, it can dramatically alter the sexual and reproductive life of a female with consequences to her self-esteem. Conclusions: The surgical repair of rectovaginal fistulas is a challenge even for the most experienced and dedicated of anal surgeons. Healing rectovaginal fistulas with underlying aetiology might be an unattainable goal even with recurrent attempts, sometimes necessitating amputation surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
Databáze: Complementary Index