Elucidating vaginal fistulas on CT and MRI

Current update on the role of endoanal ultrasound: a primer for radiologists

Endoanal ultrasound (EAUS) is a valuable imaging modality for the evaluation of anal and perianal pathologies. It provides detailed information about the anatomy and physiology of the anorectal region and has been used in pre-and post-operative settings of anorectal pathologies. EAUS is not only useful in the evaluation of benign pathologies but also in loco-regional staging of anal and rectal tumors. EAUS has several advantages over MRI, including reduced cost, better patient tolerance, and improved scope of application in patients with contraindications to MRI. Despite its benefits, EAUS is not widely performed in many centers across the globe. This article aims to educate radiologists, trainees, and surgeons about the indications, contraindications, patient preparation, imaging technique, and findings of EAUS. We will also highlight the technical difficulties, diagnostic challenges, and procedural complications encountered during EAUS, along with a comparative analysis of EAUS with other imaging approaches.

[Postoperative Imaging Findings of Colorectal Surgery: A Pictorial Essay]

Postoperative colorectal imaging studies play an important role in the detection of surgical complications and disease recurrence. In this pictorial essay, we briefly describe methods of surgery, imaging findings of their early and late complications, and postsurgical recurrence of cancer and inflammatory bowel disease.

Robotic management of urinary fistula

Objectives

To highlight critical preoperative and intraoperative considerations in approaching fistula repair robotically.

Methods

A search of the literature was conducted to identify relevant articles pertaining to robotic management of urinary fistulae.

Results

Fistulae of the genitourinary tract can be a challenging dilemma for urologists, as definitive management may require surgical intervention. Pathogenesis of both enteric and non-enteric fistulae are multifactorial, and successful repair hinges on the meticulous perioperative evaluation, planning, and execution. Traditional open techniques can subject patients to increased morbidity and prolonged hospitalizations. Since its introduction, the robotic surgical platform has continued to expand its indications. Its three-dimensional visualization and tremor free wristed instrument movements have made the robotic platform an attractive option for genitourinary fistula reconstruction.

Conclusion

Robotic management of complex urinary fistulae is feasible in expert hands; more studies are needed to define its role in the treatment algorithm of this devastating conditions.

What can go wrong when doing right? A pictorial review of iatrogenic genitourinary complications

A growing number of treatments for genitourinary diseases can result in various iatrogenic complications. Multimodality imaging in the post-procedural setting is essential for early and accurate diagnosis to limit morbidity and mortality. We review common and uncommon treatment-induced pathologies affecting the genitourinary system via a case-based approach. We illustrate notable complications affecting the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra induced by percutaneous procedures, external beam radiation, immunotherapy, laparoscopic/robotic pelvic surgery, and intravesicular BCG. Finally, we provide guidance on optimal imaging techniques for diagnosis and highlight the role of image-guided interventions for mitigation of complications.

Rectovaginal Fistula in a 10-Year-Old With Hirschsprung Disease: A Case Report

Hirschsprung disease is an uncommon medical condition caused by the lack of migration of ganglion cells to the rectum during embryonic development, affecting the peristaltic movements of the intestine. It is a chronic medical condition responsible for chronic constipation and intestinal obstruction. We present the case of a 10-year-old female with a history of Hirschsprung disease and colectomy admitted to a pediatric hospital for the management of multiple colonic ulcers and severe anemia who subsequently developed a rectovaginal fistula. This patient's admission was complicated by perianal and vaginal excoriations, a paralytic ileus, and fecal incontinence. This case report is unique due to the development of a rare pediatric complication of Hirschsprung disease.

Gynecological Fistulae-Has Anything Changed in the Diagnosis and Treatment over the Last Decade? A Narrative Literature Review

Gynecological fistulae are a rare but severe complication of radiation therapy, pelvic surgery, prolonged labor, cesarean deliveries, or inflammatory bowel diseases. A gynecological fistula is an abnormal pathway formed between the urinary and gynecological tract, most commonly located between the urinary bladder and vagina. Vesico-uterine and vesicovaginal fistulae are an important health issue, common in women of reproductive age in developing countries with limited access to obstetrical care. Various surgical techniques have been described for VVF repair, depending on the location, severity, and cause of the fistula and the surgeon's experience. The purpose of our review was to evaluate the present state of knowledge about the prevalence and treatment of gynecological fistulae. The PubMed scientific database was searched for original articles on the subject of gynecological fistulae that had been published between 2013 and 2023.

Transurethral ureteric embolization for locally advanced cervical cancer with uretero-vaginal fistula - A case report

INTRODUCTION

Targeted radiotherapy, surgery, and localised disease progression can all result in fistulous tract formation in patients with a pelvic malignancy, in particular cervical or endometrial cancer. This report discusses a novel technique for palliative management of ureterovaginal fistulas in end-stage disease.

PRESENTATION OF CASE REPORT

We report the case of a 37 year old female with metastatic cervical squamous cell carcinoma previously treated with chemoradiation who presented with progressive disease and secondary development of a symptomatic ureterovaginal fistula.

DISCUSSION

This case report discusses the causes and sequalae of uretero-vaginal fistula formation, the role of the interventional radiology with regards to palliative intervention, and potential patient factors that can affect performance of such procedures.

CONCLUSION

Interventional radiology plays an important role in palliative and symptomatic management of end stage malignant disease. Ureteric embolisation via a retrograde transurethral approach by way of an existing stent is a novel approach to access making the procedure easier for both the patient and radiologist.

Post-Surgical Imaging Assessment in Rectal Cancer: Normal Findings and Complications

Rectal cancer (RC) is one of the deadliest malignancies worldwide. Surgery is the most common treatment for RC, performed in 63.2% of patients. The type of surgical approach chosen aims to achieve maximum residual function with the lowest risk of recurrence. The selection is made by a multidisciplinary team that assesses the characteristics of the patient and the tumor. Total mesorectal excision (TME), including both low anterior resection (LAR) and abdominoperineal resection (APR), is still the standard of care for RC. Radical surgery is burdened by a 31% rate of major complications (Clavien-Dindo grade 3-4), such as anastomotic leaks and a risk of a permanent stoma. In recent years, less-invasive techniques, such as local excision, have been tested. These additional procedures could mitigate the morbidity of rectal resection, while providing acceptable oncologic results. The "watch and wait" approach is not a globally accepted model of care but encouraging results on selected groups of patients make it a promising strategy. In this plethora of treatments, the radiologist is called upon to distinguish a physiological from a pathological postoperative finding. The aim of this narrative review is to identify the main post-surgical complications and the most effective imaging techniques.

Tumor-Bowel Fistula as a Rare Form of Recurrent Ovarian Cancer-Imaging and Treatment: Preliminary Report

BACKGROUND

The aim of this pilot study was to evaluate the value of imaging techniques, including computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), in the diagnosis of a tumor-bowel fistula as a rare form of epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) relapse. We also performed an initial assessment of the effectiveness of the treatment of this form of relapse.

METHODS

The study group consisted of eight patients with suspected platinum-sensitive recurrence in the form of a tumor/bowel fistula. All patients finished their first line of chemotherapy and subsequently showed complete remission for 6 months or more. To qualify patients for further treatment, CT and MRI were performed, which suggested the presence of a fistula between the recurrent tumor and intestine. DESKTOP study criteria were used to qualify patients for secondary cytoreduction. Second-line chemotherapy was given after secondary debulking.

RESULTS

In all patients, fistulas formed between the tumor and large bowel. On CT, the fistulas were indirectly visible. In all cases, the fistula was visible on MR images, which showed hypointensity on the T2 and T1 post-contrast sequences but did not show restricted diffusion on the diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) sequence. Patients who were qualified for the study underwent secondary debulking with bowel resection. In all eight cases, the fistula between the tumor and surrounding organs was confirmed. During surgery, seven intestinal anastomoses and one colostomy were performed. No residual macroscopic tumor remained in seven cases (resection R0-87.5%). The progression-free survival (PFS) was 8.4-22.6 months (median 13.4). In the group with cytoreduction R0, the median PFS was 15.5 months (12-22).

CONCLUSION

In patients with suspected EOC recurrence with clinically suspected fistula, CT scan is not sufficient. In CT, the presence of a fistula is suspected based on indirect symptoms. MRI, as a method with much greater tissue resolution, confirms the diagnosis. In addition, MRI can identify the point of the tumor/bowel junction. This is especially true with a large infiltration covering several intestinal parts. Bowel resection with simultaneous anastomosis is a good and safe solution for these patients. However, appropriate qualification for the procedure is necessary, which will allow for surgery without residual macroscopic disease (R0 surgery). Due to the small number of cases, our results cannot be generalized. We treat them as a hypothesis that can be verified in a larger study.

Management of Anastomotic Leaks in Ileal Pouch Anal Anastomosis for Ulcerative Colitis

Anastomotic leaks remain a dreaded complication after ileal pouch anal anastomosis (IPAA). Their impacts can be devastating, ranging from an acute leak leading to postoperative sepsis to chronic leaks and sinus tracts resulting in long-term pouch dysfunction and subsequent pouch failure. The management of acute leaks is intricate. Initial management is important to resolve acute sepsis, but the type of acute intervention impacts long-term pouch function. Aggressive management in the postoperative period, including the use of IV fluids, broad-spectrum antibiotics, and operative interventions may be necessary to preserve pouch structure and function. Early identification and knowledge of the most common areas of leak, such as at the IPAA anastomosis, are important for guiding management. Long-term complications, such as pouch sinuses, pouch-vaginal fistulas, and diminished IPAA function complicate the overall survival and functionality of the pouch. Knowledge and awareness of the identification and management of leaks is crucial for optimizing IPAA success.

Postoperative complications of colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer, and surgery is the most common treatment. Several surgical options are available, but each is associated with a range of potential complications. The timely and efficient identification of these complications is vital for effective clinical management of these patients in order to minimise their morbidity and mortality. This review aims to describe the range of commonly performed surgical treatments for colorectal surgery. In addition, frequent post-surgical complications are explored with investigative options explained and illustrated.

Embryology of the urogenital tract; a practical overview for urogynecologic surgeons

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Urinary tract anomalies are one of the most common birth defects. Nevertheless, they prove challenging to diagnose as a result of variable presenting symptoms. We aimed to perform a review of urogenital tract development, highlight common congenital upper urinary tract anomalies encountered by urogynecologists and tools to facilitate diagnosis.

METHODS

Multiple searches were performed utilizing resources such as PubMed and the TriHealth library database to access publications related to embryology of the urinary tract and urinary tract anomalies. Each citation was reviewed.

RESULTS

Congenital urinary tract anomalies account for up to 20% of all birth defects and occur more often in females. The true incidence of these malformations is unknown as some can remain clinically insignificant throughout life. In addition, patients may present with non-specific complaints such as urinary tract infections, nephrolithiasis or urinary incontinence. Therefore, unsuspected anomalies pose a risk of delayed diagnosis and potential injury during urogynecologic surgery. Imaging modalities such as computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging are the most common diagnostic tests. Management and treatment options range from observation to surgical resection with the goal of optimizing long-term functionality and prevention of chronic sequelae.

CONCLUSION

Patients with urinary tract anomalies can present with vague complaints often encountered by urogynecologists. It is crucial to understand the embryologic development of urinary tract anomalies to help facilitate diagnosis and guide care within the office and operating room setting.