Ileal pouch-vaginal fistula treated by abdominoanal advancement of the ileal pouch

Gracilis muscle interposition for pouch-vaginal fistulas: a single-centre cohort study and literature review

BACKGROUND

First described by Parks and Nicholls in 1978, the ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) has revolutionized the treatment of mucosal ulcerative colitis (MUC) and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). IPAA is fraught with complications, one of which is pouch-vaginal fistulas (PVF), a rare but challenging complication noted in 3.9-15% of female patients. Surgical treatment success approximates 50%. Gracilis muscle interposition (GMI) is a promising technique that has shown good results with other types of perineal fistulas. We present the results from our institution and a comprehensive literature review.

METHODS

A retrospective observational study including all patients with a PVF treated with GMI at our institution from December 2018-January 2000. Primary outcome was complete healing after ileostomy closure.

RESULTS

Nine patients were included. Eight of nine IPAAs (88.9%) were performed for MUC, and one for FAP. A subsequent diagnosis of Crohn's disease was made in five patients. Initial success occurred in two patients (22.2%), one patient was lost to follow-up and seven patients, after further procedures, ultimately achieved healing (77.8%). Four of five patients with Crohn's achieved complete healing (80%).

CONCLUSION

Surgical healing rates quoted in the literature for PVFs are approximately 50%. The initial healing rate was 22.2% and increased to 77.8% after subsequent surgeries, while it was 80% in patients with Crohn's disease. Given this, gracilis muscle interposition may have a role in the treatment of pouch-vaginal fistulas.

Ileoanal pouch-related fistulae: A systematic review with meta-analysis on incidence, treatment options and outcomes

BACKGROUND

Ileoanal pouch related fistulae (PRF) are a complication of restorative proctocolectomy often requiring repeated surgical interventions and with a high risk of long-term recurrence and pouch failure.

AIMS

To assess the incidence of PRF and to report on the outcomes of available surgical treatments.

METHODS

A PRISMA-compliant systematic literature search for articles reporting on PRF in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) or familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) from 1985 to 2020.

RESULTS

34 studies comprising 770 patients with PRF after ileal-pouch anal anastomosis (IPAA) were included. Incidence of PRF was 1.5-12%. In IBD patients Crohn's Disease (CD) was responsible for one every four pouch-vaginal fistulae (PVF) (OR 24.7; p=0.001). The overall fistula recurrence was 49.4%; procedure-specific recurrence was: repeat IPAA (OR 42.1; GRADE +); transvaginal repair (OR 52.3; GRADE ++) and transanal ileal pouch advancement flap (OR 56.9; GRADE ++). The overall failure rate was 19%: pouch excision (OR 0.20; GRADE ++); persistence of diverting stoma (OR 0.13; GRADE +) and persistent fistula (OR 0.18; GRADE +).

CONCLUSION

PVFs are more frequent compared to other types of PRF and are often associated to CD; surgical treatment has a risk of 50% recurrence. Repeat IPAA is the best surgical approach with a 42.1% recurrence rate.

Systematic review on the management of ileoanal pouch-vaginal fistulas after restorative proctocolectomy in the treatment of ulcerative colitis

AIM

Ileoanal pouch-vaginal fistula (PVF) is a relatively common complication of restorative proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis. There are several operative approaches in the management of PVF. There is currently no consensus as to which approach is the most effective or which should be attempted first.

METHOD

A systematic review was undertaken following a publicly available protocol registered with PROSPERO (CRD42019133750) in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Online searches of databases MEDLINE and Embase, Cochrane Library, ClinicalTrials.gov, EU Clinical Trials and ISRCTN registry were performed.

RESULTS

Twenty-seven articles met the criteria for inclusion in the study: 13 retrospective cohort studies, two prospective cohort studies, eight case series, three case reports and a case-control study. A narrative synthesis was performed due to heterogeneity between included articles. Our study included 577 PVFs, and the incidence rate was 2.1%-17.1%. Both local and abdominal approaches were used in the management of PVF. The overall success of local and abdominal procedures was 44.9% and 60.2% respectively. ROBINS-I assessment revealed a critical risk of bias. GRADE assessment indicated a very low certainty in effect size and evidence quality.

CONCLUSION

Local interventions and abdominal approaches have a high failure rate. The results of this review will aid the counselling of patients with this condition. Furthermore, we provide an algorithm for discussion on the management of PVF based on experience at our local centre. The studies available on the management of PVF are low quality; a large prospective registry and Delphi consensus are required to further this area of research.

Ileal-anal pouches: A review of its history, indications, and complications

The ileal pouch anal anastomosis (IPAA) has revolutionised the surgical management of ulcerative colitis (UC) and familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). Despite refinement in surgical technique(s) and patient selection, IPAA can be associated with significant morbidity. As the IPAA celebrated its 40^th anniversary in 2018, this review provides a timely outline of its history, indications, and complications. IPAA has undergone significant modification since 1978. For both UC and FAP, IPAA surgery aims to definitively cure disease and prevent malignant degeneration, while providing adequate continence and avoiding a permanent stoma. The majority of patients experience long-term success, but “early” and “late” complications are recognised. Pelvic sepsis is a common early complication with far-reaching consequences of long-term pouch dysfunction, but prompt intervention (either radiological or surgical) reduces the risk of pouch failure. Even in the absence of sepsis, pouch dysfunction is a long-term complication that may have a myriad of causes. Pouchitis is a common cause that remains incompletely understood and difficult to manage at times. 10% of patients succumb to the diagnosis of pouch failure, which is traditionally associated with the need for pouch excision. This review provides a timely outline of the history, indications, and complications associated with IPAA. Patient selection remains key, and contraindications exist for this surgery. A structured management plan is vital to the successful management of complications following pouch surgery.

What Is the Best Surgical Treatment of Pouch-Vaginal Fistulas?

BACKGROUND

Pouch-vaginal fistula is a debilitating condition with no single best surgical treatment described. Closure of these fistulas can be incredibly difficult, and transanal, transabdominal, and transvaginal approaches have been reported with varying success rates. Recurrence is a major problem and could eventually result in repeat redo pouch or permanent diversion.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of our study was to investigate healing rates for procedures done for pouch-vaginal fistula closure.

DESIGN

This is a retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database complemented by chart review.

SETTINGS

This study reports data of a tertiary referral center.

PATIENTS

Patients who underwent surgery for pouch-vaginal fistula from 2010 to 2017 were identified. Patients who underwent surgery with intent to close the fistula were included, and patients who had inadequate follow-up to verify fistula status were excluded.

INTERVENTIONS

Patients included underwent surgery to close pouch-vaginal fistula.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Success of the surgery was the main outcome measure. Success was defined as procedures with no reported recurrence of fistula on last follow-up.

RESULTS

A total of 70 patients underwent surgery with an intent to close the pouch-vaginal fistula, 65 of whom had undergone index IPAA for ulcerative colitis, but 13 of these patients later had the diagnosis changed to Crohn's disease. Thirty-nine patients (56%) had a fistula originating from anal transition zone to dentate line to the vagina (not at the pouch anastomosis). In the total group of 70 patients, our successful closure rate was 39 (56%) of 70. Procedures with the highest success rates were perineal ileal pouch advancement flap and redo IPAA (61% and 69%).

LIMITATIONS

The retrospective nature and small number of cases are the limitations of the study.

CONCLUSIONS

Although numerous procedures may be used in an attempt to close pouch-vaginal fistula, pouch advancement and redo pouch were the most successful in closing the fistula. See Video Abstract at http://links.lww.com/DCR/A841.

Modified Martius flap procedure for refractory ileal pouch-vestibular fistula: a report of three cases

PURPOSE

Pouch-vaginal or vestibular fistula is an uncommon, but devastating complication that occurs in women after ileal J pouch-anal anastomosis. The management of these fistulae is challenging, and it is associated with high recurrence and pouch loss rates. This report describes the use of the modified Martius flap procedure for three patients with ulcerative colitis who developed refractory pouch-vestibular fistulae.

RESULTS

Three patients with ulcerative colitis, who underwent total colectomy, mucosal proctectomy, and ileal pouch-anal anastomosis, developed pouch-vestibular fistulae. The fistulae originated in the pouch-anal anastomosis site in all three cases. We performed fistulectomy and transvaginal closure with sphincteroplasty followed by the modified Martius flap procedure under diversion ileostomy. No complications occurred after ileostomy closure, and the postoperative anal function was good.

CONCLUSION

The modified Martius flap procedure is among the best options for patients with ulcerative colitis who develop refractory pouch-vestibular fistula as a complication of mucosal proctectomy.

Multidisciplinary and evidence-based management of fistulizing perianal Crohn's disease

Perianal symptoms are common in patients with Crohn's disease and cause considerable morbidity. The etiology of these symptoms include skin tags, ulcers, fissures, abscesses, fistulas or stenoses. Fistula is the most common perianal manifestation. Multiple treatment options exist although very few are evidence-based. The phases of treatment include: drainage of infection, assessment of Crohn's disease status and fistula tracts, medical therapy, and selective operative management. The impact of biological therapy on perianal Crohn's disease is uncertain given that outcomes are conflicting. Operative treatment to eradicate the fistula tract can be attempted once infection has resolved and Crohn's disease activity is controlled. The operative approach should be tailored according to the anatomy of the fistula tract. Definitive treatment is challenging with medical and operative treatment rarely leading to true healing with frequent complications and recurrence. Treatment success must be weighed against the risk of complications, specially anal sphincter injury. A full understanding of the etiology and all potential therapeutic options is critical for success. Multidisciplinary management of fistulizing perianal Crohn's disease is crucial to improve outcomes.

Reoperative inflammatory bowel disease surgery

With the advent of restorative proctocolectomy or ileal pouch-anal anastomosis (IPAA) for ulcerative colitis (UC), not only has there been potential for cure of UC but also patients have enjoyed marked improvements in bowel function, continence, and quality of life. However, IPAA can be complicated by postoperative small bowel obstruction, disease recurrence, and pouch failure secondary to pelvic sepsis, pouch dysfunction, mucosal inflammation, and neoplastic transformation. These may necessitate emergent or expeditious elective reoperation to salvage the pouch and preserve adequate function. Local, transanal, and transabdominal approaches to IPAA salvage are described, and their indications, outcomes, and the clinical parameters that affect the need for salvage are discussed. Pouch excision for failed salvage reoperation is reviewed as well. Relaparotomy is also frequently required for recurrent Crohn's disease (CD), especially given the nature of this as yet incurable illness. Risk factors for CD recurrence are examined, and the various surgical options and margins of resection are evaluated with a focus on bowel-sparing policy. Stricturoplasty, its outcomes, and its importance in recurrent disease are discussed, and segmental resection is compared with more extensive procedures such as total colectomy with ileorectal anastomosis. Lastly, laparoscopy is addressed with respect to its long-term outcomes, effect on surgical recurrence, and its application in the management of recurrent CD.

Review article: restorative proctocolectomy, indications, management of complications and follow-up--a guide for gastroenterologists

BACKGROUND

Restorative proctocolectomy with ileal pouch-anal anastomosis is the procedure of choice for the majority of patients with ulcerative colitis who require surgery. Over 2500 patients in the UK have undergone restorative proctocolectomy. It is now increasingly being performed in district general hospitals as well as in specialist inflammatory bowel disease units. Gastroenterologists are increasingly involved in the management of patients following restorative proctocolectomy.

AIM

To provide gastroenterologists with a clear understanding of the investigation and evidence-based management of complications and the aftercare required in patients who have undergone restorative proctocolectomy.

RESULTS

Following restorative proctocolectomy, most patients have an excellent long-term functional outcome. Pouchitis, pelvic sepsis and poor function are the most common causes of failure. The development of cancer is rare; nevertheless, long-term follow-up is required.

CONCLUSIONS

The investigation and management of patients who develop complications require a multidisciplinary team approach to optimize the outcome. Protocols are suggested for investigation and management of patients with complications and for long-term cancer surveillance.

Ileal pouch-anal anastomosis-vaginal fistula: a review

BACKGROUND

Fistula between an ileal pouch and the vagina is an uncommon complication of ileal pouch-anal anastomosis. Its optimal management has not been determined because of its low incidence.

METHODS

The literature describing such fistulas was reviewed to determine the incidence, cause, and appropriate investigation and repair of these lesions. A literature search was performed with the PubMed, MEDLINE, and EMBASE databases. Through this search we located English-language articles from 1970 to 2003 on pouch-vaginal fistulas following ileal pouch-anal anastomosis. References from these articles were searched manually for further references.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

Pouch-vaginal fistula occurs in 6.3 (range, 3.3-15.8) percent of female patients with an ileal pouch-anal anastomosis. Sepsis and technical factors are the most common contributors. It is the cause of considerable morbidity. Management depends on the level of the fistula, the amount of pelvic scar tissue, and previous treatments. An algorithm for surgical treatment is suggested.

Risk factors associated with ileal pouch-related fistula following restorative proctocolectomy

Introduction

Pouch-related fistula occurs in 5–10 per cent of patients after restorative proctocolectomy. The present study identified risk factors associated with the development of such fistulas.

Methods

Data on preoperative and postoperative risk factors were recorded from 1965 patients who underwent restorative proctocolectomy in a single tertiary centre between 1983 and 2001. Cox regression analysis was used to identify independent predictors of pouch–perineal, pouch–abdominal wall and pouch–vaginal fistula during follow-up.

Results

Median patient follow-up was 4·1 (range 0–19) years. By 15 years' follow-up, pouch–vaginal fistulas had occurred in 44 women (5·2 per cent). The prevalence of ileal pouch–perineal and pouch–abdominal wall fistula was 3·6 per cent (70 patients) and 1·5 per cent (30 patients) respectively. Independent predictors of pouch-related fistula identified by multivariate analysis were diagnosis of indeterminate colitis or Crohn's disease (hazard ratio (HR) 1·28 (95 per cent confidence interval (c.i.) 1·00 to 1·65) and 1·73 (95 per cent c.i. 1·07 to 3·48) respectively versus ulcerative colitis or familial adenomatous polyposis), previous anal pathology (HR 3·43 (95 per cent c.i. 2·43 to 4·84) and 4·02 (95 per cent c.i. 1·27 to 12·77) respectively for perineal abscess and fistula in ano versus no previous anal pathology), abnormal anal manometry (HR 4·29 (95 per cent c.i. 2·33 to 7·91)), patient sex (HR 0·74 (95 per cent c.i. 0·58 to 0·95) for men versus women) and pelvic sepsis (HR 3·79 (95 per cent c.i. 2·48 to 5·79)).

Conclusion

This study suggests that Crohn's disease and the clinical signs that favour the diagnosis of Crohn's disease may contribute to the development of pouch-related fistula.

Pouch-vaginal fistula after ileal pouch-anal anastomosis: treatment and outcomes

PURPOSE

Pouch-vaginal fistula is an uncommon but serious complication after ileal pouch anal anastomosis. The management of pouch-vaginal fistulas is challenging and a number of treatment options exist. The purpose of this study was to examine the outcomes after various procedures for pouch-vaginal fistula performed at our institution.

METHODS

Patients who were treated for pouch-vaginal fistula at Mount Sinai Hospital were identified from a prospectively maintained database. Demographic, disease history, treatment, and outcomes data were obtained. Treatment success was defined as no recurrence of the fistula with a functioning pouch and no ileostomy.

RESULTS

Since November 1982, 24 of 619 (3.9 percent) women who had primary ileal pouch-anal anastomosis performed at Mount Sinai Hospital developed a pouch-vaginal fistula. Five women had ileal pouch-anal anastomosis performed at another institution and were referred for management of their pouch-vaginal fistula. Local and/or combined abdominoperineal repairs were performed in 22 of 29 patients. Combined abdominoperineal repairs were associated with a higher success rate than that of local perineal repairs (52.9 vs. 7.9 percent, respectively, at 10 years after repair; p = 0.035). Overall, 50 percent (11/22) of patients who underwent surgical repair of a pouch-vaginal fistula had a successful result with a functioning pouch and no recurrence of the fistula, and 21 percent (6/29) of patients required pouch excision.

CONCLUSIONS

The management of pouch-vaginal fistula after ileal pouch-anal anastomosis is associated with a high recurrence rate. Combined abdominoperineal repair appears to offer better results than those of local procedures.

Salvage surgery after restorative proctocolectomy

Restorative proctocolectomy is now the elective surgical procedure of choice for most patients with ulcerative colitis or familial adenomatous polyposis. There are four causes of failure including acute and chronic sepsis, poor function for mechanical or functional reasons, mucosal inflammation (including pouchitis and retained rectal mucosa) and neoplastic transformation. Failure rates themselves range from 5% to nearly 20%. Followed over a period of 20 years, the failure rate can be summarised approximately as 5% at five years, 10% at ten years and 15% at 15 years.

Salvage surgery after restorative proctocolectomy

BACKGROUND AND METHOD

Restorative proctocolectomy is now the elective surgical procedure of choice for most patients with ulcerative colitis or familial adenomatous polyposis. Complications may lead to failure, defined as removal of the reservoir with establishment of a permanent ileostomy or long-term diversion. Failure may be avoided for some patients by salvage surgery. The causes of failure are identified in this article and the procedures adopted to treat them are defined; a review of the literature was carried out to determine the effectiveness of the procedures.

RESULTS

Failure after restorative proctocolectomy results from complications, which may occur indefinitely during follow-up to a cumulative rate of about 15 per cent at 10-15 years. Sepsis accounts for over 50 per cent of these complications. Abdominal salvage procedures are successful in 20 to over 80 per cent of patients but the rate of salvage is dependent on the duration of follow-up, which might explain this variance. Local procedures are successful in 50-60 per cent of patients with pouch-vaginal fistula. Poor function accounts for about 30 per cent of failures. Abdominal salvage for outlet obstruction and low pouch capacitance results in satisfactory or acceptable function in up to 70 per cent of patients. There is no effective surgical salvage for pouchitis.

CONCLUSION

Salvage surgery must be discussed carefully with the patient, who should be made aware of the possible complications and the prospect of success, which is less than that in the general population of patients undergoing ileoanal pouch surgery.