Turnbull-Cutait Pull-Through Procedure Is an Alternative to Permanent Ostomy in Patients With Complex Pelvic Fistulas

BACKGROUND

A permanent stoma is frequently recommended in the setting of complex or recurrent rectovaginal fistulas because of the high failure rate of reconstructive procedures. The Turnbull-Cutait pull-through procedure is a salvage operation for motivated patients desiring to avoid permanent fecal diversion.

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the cure rates of complex rectovaginal fistulas after the Turnbull-Cutait pull-through procedure based on cause.

DESIGN

After the institutional review approval board, a retrospective review of women who underwent the procedure (1993-2018) for a rectovaginal fistula was conducted. Patients' demographics, cause, and postoperative outcomes were analyzed.

SETTING

Colorectal surgery department at a tertiary center in the United States.

PATIENTS

Adult women with a rectovaginal fistula who underwent a colonic pull-through procedure were included.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Recurrence after the colonic pull-through procedure.

RESULTS

There were 81 patients who underwent colonic pull-through; of those, 26 patients had a rectovaginal fistula, had a median age of 51 (43-57) years, and had a mean BMI of 28 ± 3.2 kg/m 2 . A total of 4 patients (15%) had a recurrence and 85% of the patients healed. Ninety-three percent of the patients healed after the prior anastomotic leak. Patients with a Crohn's disease-related fistula had a 75% cure rate. The Kaplan-Meier analysis showed a cumulative incidence of recurrence of 8% (95% CI, 0%-8%) within 6 months after surgery and 12% at 12 months.

LIMITATIONS

Retrospective design.

CONCLUSIONS

The Turnbull-Cutait pull-through procedure may be the last option to preserve intestinal continuity and successfully treat rectovaginal fistulas in 85% of cases.

EL PROCEDIMIENTO PULLTHROUGH DE TURNBULLCUTAIT ES UNA ALTERNATIVA A LA OSTOMA PERMANENTE EN PACIENTES CON FSTULAS PLVICAS COMPLEJAS

ANTECEDENTES:Con frecuencia se recomienda un estoma permanente en el contexto de una fístula rectovaginal compleja o recurrente debido a la alta tasa de fracaso de los procedimientos reconstructivos. El procedimiento de extracción de Turnbull-Cutait es una operación de rescate para pacientes motivados que desean evitar la desviación fecal permanente.OBJETIVO:Analizar las tasas de curación de la fístula rectovaginal compleja después del procedimiento de extracción de Turnbull-Cutait según la etiología.DISEÑO:Después de la junta de aprobación de revisión institucional, se realizó una revisión retrospectiva de mujeres que se sometieron a un procedimiento (1993-2018) por fístula rectovaginal. Se analizaron los datos demográficos, la etiología y los resultados posoperatorios de los pacientes.AJUSTE:Departamento de cirugía colorrectal en un centro terciario en los Estados Unidos.PACIENTES:Mujeres adultas con fístula rectovaginal que se sometieron a extracción del colon.RESULTADO PRINCIPAL:recurrencia después de la extracción del colon.RESULTADOS:Hubo 81 pacientes que tenían extracción colónica, de esas 26 fístulas rectovaginales con una mediana de edad de 51 (43 - 57) años, y un índice de masa corporal promedio de 28 ± 3,2 kg/m2. Un total de 4 (15%) pacientes tuvieron una recurrencia y el 85% de los pacientes se curaron. El noventa y tres por ciento de los pacientes se curaron después de la fuga anastomótica previa. Los pacientes con fístula relacionada con EC tuvieron una tasa de curación del 75%. El análisis de Kaplan Meier mostró una incidencia acumulada de recurrencia del 8% [95% intervalo de confianza 0%-18%] dentro de los 6 meses posteriores a la cirugía y del 12% a los 12 meses.LIMITACIONES:Diseño retrospectivo.CONCLUSIONES:El procedimiento de extracción de Turnbull-Cutait puede ser la última opción que se puede ofrecer para preservar la continuidad intestinal y tratar la fístula rectovaginal con éxito en el 85% de los casos. (Traducción-Yesenia.Rojas-Khalil).

Womens' experiences of living with obstetric fistula in Ghana-time for the establishment of a fistula centre of excellence

OBJECTIVE

To explore the experiences of women living with Obstetric Fistula in Ghana.

DESIGN

A descriptive qualitative design involving face-to-face semi-structured interviews following institutional ethical approval.

SETTING

Urban and rural setting in the Mfantseman Municipal Area (MMA) in the Central Region (CR) of Ghana PARTICIPANTS: A purposive sample of thirty- two women who had experienced obstetric fistula (OBF) FINDINGS: Three core themes emerged and these were i) Women's perceptions of OBF, ii) Experiences of women living with OBF iii) Coping strategies of women living with OBF CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: There is a need for a multi-agency coordinated approach to the treatment and management of OBF in Ghana. The findings support the need for a dedicated specialist fistula centre to treat women and to meet the educational needs of health care professionals with strategies to prevent as well as support women with OBF. The hub and spoke organisation design for health care systems has proved beneficial in other health settings providing a level of quality that would not be possible otherwise. It is time to end the suffering of women living with obstetric fistula.

[Quality of life and symptoms before and after surgical treatment of rectovaginal fistula]

INTRODUCTION

Rectovaginal fistula requires a complex management because it has an important psychological impact associated with impaired quality of life of patients. Thus, the aim of our study was to evaluate the improvement of the quality of life of patients after surgical management.

METHODS

This is a retrospective study. We included patients operated between 2009 and 2014 for the treatment of a rectovaginal fistula, whose data were available and who agreed to answer a questionnaire. We evaluated the satisfaction of short-term and long-term patients on the answer to the basic PFDI-20 and PFIQ-7 questionnaires. We then evaluated whether there was an improvement in symptoms and quality of life after surgery.

RESULTS

Nine patients were included but only 4 patients completed the PFDI-20 and PFIQ-7 questionnaires. Fistula was secondary to either surgical intervention (44%, n=4) or complicated perineal tear (44%, n=4) or unknown cause (11%, n=1). After surgery, we found the short term a significant decrease in stool incontinence, as there was no stool incontinence (0/5) in the postoperative period, while preoperatively 55% (5/9) (P=0.03). Postoperatively, 33% (3/9) of the patients had genital discomfort and 44% (4/9) had gas incontinence compared to 0% preoperatively (P=0.2 and P=0.6). There appears to be an improvement in pelvic static disorders after surgical management. However, we found a slight improvement in nauseous leucorrhoea in the immediate postoperative period, as the prevalence decreased from 33% (3/9) preoperatively to 22% (2/9) postoperatively (P>0.9). In the long term, we observed an improvement in the sensation of perineal heaviness and gas incontinence because only 25% (1/4) of the 75% (3/4) preoperative patients still showed slight discomfort (P=0.5). The quality of life and the emotional state of the patients were no altered postoperatively. Indeed, preoperatively, 50% (2/4) of the patients reported anxiety compared to 0% (0/4) postoperatively (P=0.4). Similarly, 75% (3/4) complained of a decrease in their quality of life (social, sports, etc.) preoperatively compared with 0% (0/4) postoperatively (P>0.9).

CONCLUSION

A simple surgical management of rectovaginal fistulas would allow a significant decrease in stool incontinence and improved quality of life and their emotional state, which confirms the beneficial effect of this therapeutic strategy.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4.

Patient and disease characteristics associated with late tumour stage at presentation of cervical cancer in northwestern Tanzania

BACKGROUND

About two thirds of patients with cervical cancer in Tanzania present with advanced tumor stage, leading to significant morbidity and mortality. We designed a study to determine the factors associated with the late tumour stage at presentation among patients with cervical cancer in Mwanza.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study recruited women at Bugando Medical Centre (BMC) with histologically confirmed cervical cancer from November 2013 to April 2014. Patients were recruited serially until the sample size was reached.

RESULTS

A total of 202 women with histologically confirmed cervical cancer were recruited. The mean age of the patients was 50.5 ± 13.3 years. The majority of patients (n = 129, 63.9%) were diagnosed with late stage disease (IIB-IVB). Patients also presented with severe anemia (n = 78, 38.6%), urinary tract infections (n = 74, 36.6%), hydronephrosis (n = 43, 21.2%), elevated serum creatinine levels (n = 33, 16.3%), vesicovaginal fistula (VVF), (n = 13, 6.4%), lung metastasis (n = 5, 2.4%), metastasis to the urinary bladder (n = 4, 1.9%), rectovaginal fistula (RVF) (n = 3, 1.4%), liver metastasis (n = 2, 0.9%) and hydroureter (n = 2, 0.9%). In multivariate logistic regression, factors associated with late stage at presentation were attending to alternative health practitioners and lack of personal initiative to seek care to formal health facilities (OR 2.3; 95% CI 1.2-4.2, p = 0.011 and OR 2.0; 95 % CI 1.0-3.8, p = 0.028) respectively.

CONCLUSION

Communities should be sensitized to women's empowerment, provide community education on early symptoms of cervical cancer, and the importance of early hospital attendance.

Access to essential paediatric surgery in the developing world: a case of imperforate anus with rectovaginal and rectocutaneous fistulas left untreated

Anorectal malformations consist of a wide spectrum of conditions which can affect both sexes and involve the distal anus and rectum as well as the urinary and genital tracts. Patients have the best chance of a good functional outcome if the condition is diagnosed early and efficient anatomic repair is promptly instituted. This report describes a rare case of imperforate anus associated with both rectovaginal and rectocutaneous fistulas in a 6-year-old Filipino girl. The case highlights shortcomings in the healthcare delivery system combined with socio-economic factors that contributed to the delay in both diagnosis and the institution of adequate treatment. Care and preventive measures that can be implemented in low-resource settings to reduce the impact of birth defects are also discussed.

Pyosalpinx and hydrosalpinx in virginal adolescents: report of two cases

Pyosalpinx and hydrosalpinx are conditions mainly seen in adult women, but also among sexually active adolescents and can bring added hazard to fertility. However these conditions are very rare in childhood, as well as in adolescent girls who are not sexually active. We are presenting two rare cases of young girls in early puberty with hydrosalpinx and pyosalpinx. Both girls had a history of abdomino-pelvic surgery in childhood for congenital bowel anomalies and fecal incontinence. Such cases are good reminders that girls with known abdomino-pelvic anomalies and surgical procedures in childhood need long term follow-up, in particular when entering puberty and maturation. The two cases show how fallopian tubes can be indirectly affected and present in adolescence with serious problems needing surgical procedures and potentially threatening future reproductive system performances.

Single stage repair of anovestibular fistula in neonate

Anorectal malformations are one of the most common congenital defects. This study is conducted to evaluate the result of single stage anterior sagittal anorectovaginoplasty (ASARVP) in cases of vestibular anus (AVF) in neonatal age group without thorough gut preparation. All the patients of AVF admitted during 2003-2006 were included in this study. Single stage ASARVP was done in these patients without preparing the bowel in the lithotomy position, the fistula was freed and sufficient length of anorectum was dissected and vagina was separated. Midline incision at the proposed anal site was made, then a plane was dissected between the muscle complex going anteriorly. The mobilized anorectum was pulled to the proposed anal site and proper anoplasty was done. The results were evaluated for duration of surgery, need of bowel preparation, commencement of feed and hospital stay and follow-up (assessment of continence and anal dilatation). A total of 27 patients were included in our study. All patients were less than 1-month-old. Operative time ranges from 50 to 70 min. Bowel preparation was not needed. Per oral feed was started after 48 h in all patients and average duration of hospital stay was 3- 4 days. Postoperative regular anal dilatation was commenced after 1 week of operation. Continence results according to Kelly's method were good in 70%, fair in 21% and poor 9%. Single-stage anorectovaginoplasty in neonates has a good result in cases of AVF and avoids the need of bowel preparation.

Risk of fecal diversion in complicated perianal Crohn's disease

The purpose of the study was to determine the overall risk of a permanent stoma in patients with complicated perianal Crohn's disease, and to identify risk factors predicting stoma carriage. A total of 102 consecutive patients presented with the first manifestation of complicated perianal Crohn's disease in our outpatient department between 1992 and 1995. Ninety-seven patients (95%) could be followed up at a median of 16 years after first diagnosis of Crohn's disease. Patients were sent a standardized questionnaire and patient charts were reviewed with respect to the recurrence of perianal abscesses or fistulas and surgical treatment, including fecal diversion. Factors predictive of permanent stoma carriage were determined by univariate and multivariate analysis. Thirty of 97 patients (31%) with complicated perianal Crohn's disease eventually required a permanent stoma. The median time from first diagnosis of Crohn's disease to permanent fecal diversion was 8.5 years (range 0-23 years). Temporary fecal diversion became necessary in 51 of 97 patients (53%), but could be successfully removed in 24 of 51 patients (47%). Increased rates of permanent fecal diversion were observed in 54% of patients with complex perianal fistulas and in 54% of patients with rectovaginal fistulas, as well as in patients that had undergone subtotal colon resection (60%), left-sided colon resection (83%), or rectal resection (92%). An increased risk for permanent stoma carriage was identified by multivariate analysis for complex perianal fistulas (odds ratio [OR] 5; 95% confidence interval [CI] 2-18), temporary fecal diversion (OR 8; 95% CI 2-35), fecal incontinence (OR 21, 95% CI 3-165), or rectal resection (OR 30; 95% CI 3-179). Local drainage, setons, and temporary stoma for deep and complicated fistulas in Crohn's disease, followed by a rectal advancement flap, may result in closing of the stoma in 47% of the time. The risk of permanent fecal diversion was substantial in patients with complicated perianal Crohn's disease, with patients requiring a colorectal resection or suffering from fecal incontinence carrying a particularly high risk for permanent fecal diversion. In contrast, patients with perianal Crohn's disease who required surgery for small bowel disease or a segmental colon resection carried no risk of a permanent stoma.

Use of urethral plugs for urinary incontinence following fistula repair

A common complication following anatomical closure of obstetric genito-urinary fistula is urinary incontinence. Management is often suboptimal with lack of urodynamic equipment in most fistula centres in developing countries. Surgical interventions have been described with varying success. The aim of this paper is to describe the use of urethral plugs as an alternative management for women with postfistula incontinence, in a developing country. A pilot study was undertaken to assess the effectiveness of the urethral plugs in these women. The use of urethral plugs appear to be an effective short-term management of women with postfistula incontinence, with minimal complications. Longer follow-up and in larger numbers are required.

Double gastric outlet obstruction with epidermolysis bullosa in a neonate

We report a 2-day-old baby who had double gastric outlet obstruction, rectovaginal fistula and associated epidermolysis bullosa. She recovered after excision of diaphragms, pyloroplasty and pelvic colostomy.

[Clinical experiences of five cases with ulcerative colitis and recto- or anovaginal fistula]

Clinical aspects, treatment and outcome of five patients with ulcerative colitis recto- or anovaginal fistula and were studied retrospectively. All patients had total colitis (relapse and remission type) and more than a 5 year history of ulcerative colitis. They all had anorectal complications, such as periproctal abscess, stenosis of fistula. Four patients had total colectomy with an ileal pouch anal canal anastomosis for intractability or dysplasia. One was treated conservatively. Complete closure of fistula was obtained in two patients;in one patient rectum was resected below the fistula and in one patient defect of the vaginal posterior wall was reconstructed by using a gluteal fold flap following colectomy. Recto- or anovaginal fistula complicating ulcerative colitis is rare but may occur in the patients with severe rectal inflammation and they can be managed by restorative proctocolectomy with an ileal pouch anal or anal canal anastomosis.

[Study on causes and treatment of repeated vulvovaginitis in girlhood]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the causes and treatment of repeated vulvovaginitis in girlhood in order to improve its prevention and treatment.

METHODS

Fifty-one girls with repeated vulvovaginitis (age < or = 10 years) admitted to The Second Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University from Jan. 1990 to Nov. 2004 were reviewed retrospectively.

RESULTS

We found 28 girls (55%) suffering from non-specific vulvovaginitis and 14 ones (27%) suffering from posterior recto-vaginal fistula with in 51 patients. Five girls (10%) were smitten with vulval ulcer and 3 ones (6%) had been were found with vaginal foreign bodies. One girl (2%) was smitten with adhesion of labia minora. The vaginal discharges taken from 21 girls were cultured. Seventeen cases found bacteria. The positive rate of bacteria culture in the 21 cases reached 81%, in which, E.coli accounted for 5 cases (24%), staphylococcus and streptococcus accounted for 3 cases (14%) respectively. Patients suffering from non-specific vulvovaginitis and vulval ulcer accepted external lotion, antibiotic ointment or combining with antibiotics. Patients suffering from posterior recto-vaginal fistula accepted fistulectomy. Three girls who found vaginal foreign bodies took out of foreign bodies by hysteroscope. Fifty-one girls all were cured after appropriate therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Vulvovaginitis is the most common gynecologic diagnosis in girlhood. The principal cause of repeated invasion is non-specific vulvovaginitis and the secondly one is posterior recto-vaginal fistula. It need overhaul during the diagnosis. It is very availability to use hysteroscopy and do bacteria culture + antibiotic sensitivity test for repeated pediatric vulvovaginitis.

[Squamous cell carcinoma of the rectum and traumatic recto vaginal fistula relation or coincidence? Case study]

Primary squamous cell carcinoma of the rectum is rare and its cause and pathogenesis are not clear. Likewise, rectal squamous cell carcinoma in patients with rectovaginal fistula in the absence of gynecologic cancer is extremely rare. We report one of such cases that was diagnosed a year after an untreated traumatic rectovaginal fistula. We also reviewed the literature and discussed the probable association between both processes.

Infliximab therapy in 30 patients with refractory pediatric crohn disease with and without fistulas in The Netherlands

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to describe the clinical experience with the anti-tumor necrosis factor chimeric monoclonal antibody, infliximab, in pediatric patients with Crohn disease in The Netherlands.

DESIGN

Descriptive.

METHODS

Clinical response and adverse effects of infliximab were recorded for pediatric patients with Crohn disease treated from October 1992 to January 2003.

RESULTS

Thirty patients (aged 7-18 years) with refractory Crohn disease (with or without severe fistulas) were treated with infliximab. Patients were treated with up to 30 infusions. Mean follow-up was 25.3 months. A total of 212 infusions were administered. Thirteen patients had refractory Crohn disease without fistulas. Six patients showed good long-term response to infliximab treatment (defined as clinical index < or =10 points). Sixteen patients had refractory Crohn disease with draining fistulas. Nine showed good long-term response (closure or nonproductiveness of fistulas). One patient with metastatic Crohn disease in the skin had a good long-term response. Six patients developed an allergic reaction during infusion. In one patient, the allergic reaction occurred after an infliximab-free interval of 9 years. One patient died of sepsis.

CONCLUSIONS

Infliximab was an effective therapy in 53% of patients with refractory pediatric Crohn disease, with or without fistulas. Approximately half of the patients become unresponsive to infliximab therapy. Randomized controlled studies are mandatory to assess long-term efficacy and safety to define the optimal therapeutic strategy of infliximab therapy in children with Crohn disease.

Mucinous adenocarcinoma arising in rectovaginal fistulas associated with Crohn's disease

BACKGROUND

Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory disorder characterized by focal, transmural inflammation of the intestine. Gynecologic involvement, including rectovaginal fistula formation, is frequent. Case #1. A 53-year-old female with a 30-year history of Crohn's disease and numerous perirectal fistulas developed a foul smelling, purulent drainage from her rectum and a mucopurulent, bloody discharge from her vagina. A lower vaginal lesion biopsy demonstrated a low-grade mucinous adenocarcinoma. Case #2. A 42-year-old female with a 15-year history of Crohn's disease developed drainage from her vagina. Physical examination revealed an enlarging mass involving the posterior wall of the vaginal vault that connected to the anus by a fistula tract. A biopsy revealed mucinous adenocarcinoma.

CONCLUSIONS

Malignant transformation of persistent rectovaginal fistulas is a potential complication of Crohn's disease.

Findings of pelvic musculature and efficacy of laparoscopic muscle stimulator in laparoscopy-assisted anorectal pull-through for high imperforate anus

BACKGROUND

Laparoscopic findings of levator muscle and the efficacy of laparoscopic muscle stimulator (LMS) in infants with high imperforate anus have not been reported.

METHODS

Twelve patients underwent laparoscopically assisted anorectoplasty for high imperforate anus. Following laparoscopic dissection of the distal rectum and division of the fistula, levator muscles in the pelvic floor were stimulated with a 5-mm-diameter LMS. Dilatation was done by inserting a guidewire and balloon catheter through the center of the levator muscle sling and muscle complex. Rectal pull-through and anastomosis between the rectum and anus were successfully completed.

RESULTS

LMS showed good contraction of levator muscles and enhanced accurate midline placement of pull-through rectum. LMS was particularly useful in observing weak muscles in infants with rectovesical fistula.

CONCLUSIONS

Laparoscopy and LMS offer excellent visualization of the pelvic musculature and precise tract of rectal pull-through. Fecal continence will be assessed by long-term follow-up.

Absence of bacterial growth in the culture from the epidural catheter of a patient with endometrial carcinoma and febrile neutropenia: a case report and review of the literature

Infection is a potentially serious complication of long-term epidural (EP) catheterization in cancer patients. Although the use of epidural opioid analgesia is an effective and safe means for pain relief in terminally ill patients, these patients are in need of monitorization for possible infection. This is the first report in which EP catheter cultivation has been assessed in an immunocompromised and febrile neutropenic endometrial cancer patient.

Urinary and faecal incontinence following delayed primary repair of obstetric genital fistula

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate: (1) the factors associated with the development of obstetric genitourinary fistula, (2) the incidence of urinary and faecal incontinence following closure of the fistula and (3) the urodynamic findings in women with persistent urinary incontinence.

DESIGN

An observational clinical study.

SETTING

A specialised fistula unit in a developing country.

POPULATION

Women following successful anatomical closure of obstetric genitourinary fistula.

METHODS

Fifty-five women were enrolled from the Fistula Hospital in Ethiopia, following obstetric fistula repair. Their case records were reviewed and details regarding (1) antecedent obstetric factors, (2) the site, size and type of fistula and (3) pre-operative bladder neck mobility and vaginal scarring were recorded. All women were questioned regarding symptoms of faecal and urinary incontinence. Women reporting urinary incontinence following fistula repair underwent urodynamic investigations.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Clinical and urodynamic assessment.

RESULTS

The mean age of the women was 23 years (range 16-45 years). The fistula in 38 women (69%) followed the first delivery and in 17 women (31%) following a subsequent delivery. The mean duration of labour was four days (range 1-9 days). Forty-four women (80%) had an isolated vesico-vaginal fistula and 11 (20%) had a combined vesico-vaginal and recto-vaginal fistula. The mean diameter of the fistula was 2.9 cm (0.5-6 cm). Successful repair occurred in all women. Thirty women (55%) reported persistent urinary incontinence and 21 (38%) altered faecal continence at follow up. In the former group, urodynamic investigations identified genuine stress incontinence in 17 women (31%), detrusor instability in two (4%) and mixed incontinence in 11 (20%).

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates the high rate of successful closure of the fistula in a specialised fistula unit, but highlights the problem of persistent urinary incontinence following closure.

Hidradenitis suppurativa and Crohn's disease: response to treatment with infliximab

Cutaneous manifestations occur frequently in inflammatory bowel disease. The association between hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) and Crohn's disease (CD) has been reported. We present a new case supporting this association. A dramatic improvement after treatment with infliximab was achieved for both refractory fistulizing CD and axillary HS.

Delayed presentation of a congenital recto-vaginal fistula associated with a recto-sigmoid tubular duplication and spinal cord and vertebral anomalies

Tubular duplication of the recto-sigmoid colon is a rare entity. Associated anomalies including fistulae to the genitourinary tract may be found. A baby girl was found to have duplication of the recto-sigmoid colon, anomalies of sacral vertebra from S1 to S5, and solitary right kidney. The septum of this duplication was divided using staplers. Because of a history of stool coming from the vagina, a meticulous examination perioperatively was performed, but no fistula could be found. Further extensive investigation failed to show any fistula. At the age of 10 she was operated on for a tethered cord. At age 14, she experienced passage of a small amount of liquid stool per vaginum. A recto-vaginal fistula was found. Via a posterior sagittal incision, the fistula was closed by a transrectal approach. She remained asymptomatic for 16 months until the fistula recurred. Using a perineal approach, a very short fistula between the vagina and the rectum was closed. The closure was reinforced by a vaginal flap. Four months later, she remains without signs of recurrence.

Reconstruction of rectovaginal fistula with sphincter disruption by combining rectal mucosal advancement flap and anal sphincteroplasty

PURPOSE

This study evaluated the effectiveness of combining advancement flap with sphincteroplasty in patients symptomatic with rectovaginal fistula and anal sphincter disruption.

METHODS

Twenty patients with rectovaginal fistulas and anal sphincter disruptions after vaginal deliveries underwent combined rectal mucosal advancement flap and anal sphincteroplasty between July 1986 and July 1993. The mean age of the patients was 30 (range, 18-40) years and the mean duration of symptoms was 54.8 weeks (range, 7 weeks to 6 years). In addition to mucosal advancement flap repair, 13 patients underwent two-layer repair of anal sphincters (with reapproximation of the puborectalis in 8 of the patients); 6 patients underwent one-layer overlap repair of anal sphincters (with reapproximation of the puborectalis in 2 of the patients); and 1 patient underwent reapproximation of internal anal sphincter alone because squeeze pressures were adequate, as determined by anal manometry.

RESULTS

Postoperatively, vaginal discharge of stool and flatus was eliminated entirely in all 20 patients. Perfect anal continence of stool and flatus was restored in 14 patients (70 percent). Incontinence was improved but not eliminated in six patients (4 incontinent to liquid stool and 2 to flatus), and two patients required perineal pads. Subjectively, 19 patients (95 percent) reported the result as excellent or good. There were no complications.

CONCLUSION

The combination of mucosal advancement flap and anal sphincteroplasty is a safe and highly effective procedure for correcting rectovaginal fistula with sphincter disruption after obstetrical injuries.

Hyperbaric oxygenation for rectovaginal fistula: a report of two cases

A rectovaginal fistula after delivery is a rare complication, and its management can become difficult if infection occurs. In two such cases, we administered hyperbaric oxygenation (HBO) treatment against complicated infections, and we obtained a good outcome in each case.

H-type rectovaginal fistula associated with the Currarino triad

We describe a case of H-type rectovaginal fistula associated with the Currarino triad (anorectal stenosis, sacral defect, presacral mass). Presenting symptoms included passage of feces per vaginam, signs of intestinal subocclusion without perianal inflammation, left leg paresis and foul-smelling urine. An anterior sacral meningocele was repaired at the age of three months. At age 18 months the fistula was excised through a perineal approach after creation of a protective colostomy. Diagnostic and therapeutic aspects of this malformation are discussed.

Cytomegalovirus colitis in individuals without apparent cause of immunodeficiency

Cytomegalovirus infection is usually reported in immunocompromised patients. In this study, apparently immunocompetent patients with cytomegaloviral colitis were reviewed. Records with a diagnosis of cytomegaloviral colitis from January 1989 to June 1996 were retrieved for analysis. Ten patients were included (median age 70 yr). The major presenting symptoms were diarrhea and hematochezia. Ulceration was the main macroscopic finding. Rectal bleeding was mostly self-limiting. Three patients developed local complications (rectovaginal fistula in two; rectal stricture in one). In the two patients with rectovaginal fistula, lymphocytes subsets and proliferative response were entirely normal. In the other patient, low B lymphocyte count and low response to mitogen were demonstrated. However, the immunoglobulins were not suppressed and rectal biopsies revealed noncaseating granulomas, suggesting activated cell-mediated immunity. In conclusion, a high index of suspicion is crucial for early diagnosis of cytomegaloviral colitis in patients with bloody diarrhea, even though obvious evidence of immunodeficiency is lacking.

Embolization--an optional treatment for intractable hemorrhage from a malignant rectovaginal fistula: report of a case

PURPOSE

Patients rarely have intractable hemorrhage from rectovaginal fistulas, which usually require surgical intervention. This report presents our experience with nonsurgical treatment of a high-risk patient with uncontrolled hemorrhage originating from a malignant rectovaginal fistula.

METHODS

A 74-year-old female developed uncontrolled hemorrhage from a malignant rectovaginal fistula. Because of her poor physical condition, an embolization with metal clips of the right and left hypogastric arteries was performed, distal to the superior gluteal artery.

RESULTS

Embolization was successful in controlling the rectovaginal bleeding, allowing the patient to live 12 months. She refused adjuvant radiotherapy or chemotherapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Selective angiography and embolization is a worthwhile alternative in patients with uncontrolled bleeding from a malignant rectovaginal fistula who are poor candidates for surgical intervention.

Five-layer repair of rectovaginal fistula using a vaginal approach. A case report

We present a case of a rectovaginal fistula which was revealed as an incidental finding at the time of posterior colporrhaphy. We describe a previously unreported 5-layer repair through a vaginal approach in preference to the more frequently reported approaches of endoanal flap or conversion to a fourth degree tear. The diagnosis and management of rectovaginal fistulas is discussed.

Persistent perineal sinus after proctocolectomy for Crohn's disease

PURPOSE

Persistent perineal sinus is a source of morbidity after proctocolectomy for Crohn's disease. This study examined the factors responsible for persistent sinus after proctocolectomy for Crohn's disease. We also assessed the outcome of surgical treatment for persistent perineal sinus.

METHODS

The records of 145 patients who underwent proctocolectomy for Crohn's disease between 1970 and 1997 were reviewed.

RESULTS

Persistent sinus occurred in 33 (23 percent) patients after proctocolectomy. Factors associated with a significantly greater risk of perineal sinus were younger age (P = 0.006), rectal involvement (P = 0.02), perianal sepsis (P = 0.0005), high fistulas (P = 0.04), extrasphincteric excision (P = 0.0004), and fecal contamination at operation (P = 0.0003). Multivariate analyses showed that age (P = 0.0001), rectal involvement (P = 0.007), and fecal contamination (P = 0.009) were significant independent predictive factors for perineal sinus. Fifty-six operations, including 24 radical excisions, two rectus abdominis flaps, four gracilis transpositions, and two omentoplasties were performed in 24 patients with persistent sinus, but only 9 achieved healing. Long sinuses (>10 cm) and sinuses presenting late (>12 weeks after proctocolectomy) were seldom cured by surgical treatment.

CONCLUSION

Persistent perineal sinus is more likely to occur if an extrasphincteric dissection is needed because of extensive anorectal disease or if fecal contamination occurs at operation. Attempted surgical eradication of perineal sinus is often ineffective.

The Noble-Mengert-Fish operation-revisited: a composite approach for persistent rectovaginal fistulas and complex perineal defects

OBJECTIVE

Our aims were to evaluate the full-thickness anterior rectal wall advancement flap in the treatment of primary and recurrent or persistent rectovaginal fistulas, evaluate the surgical exposure for composite repair of site-specific perineal defects, and categorize clinical manifestations of site-specific perineal defects caused by obstetric injury.

STUDY DESIGN

This is a prospective study of all patients with fecal incontinence from rectovaginal septal defects and complex perineal obstetric injuries treated by the Noble-Mengert-Fish operation.

RESULTS

Thirty-four patients were classified into groups on the basis of site-specific perineal defects. Anatomic success was 94.2%. Functional success was excellent in 76.5%, good in 14.7%, fair in 5.9%, and poor in 2.9%.

CONCLUSION

The Noble-Mengert-Fish operation is effective for primary and recurrent or persistent rectovaginal fistulas. The circumanal surgical exposure permits concomitant repair of all perineal defects.

Laparoscopic treatment of type IV rectovaginal fistula

Fistulas between the anorectum and vagina may arise from several causes. Treatment depends on their etiology and location, as well as the surgeon's experience. Operative laparoscopy was successful in two women with type IV (mid)rectovaginal fistula in whom previous surgical attempts failed. Our experience suggests that mid and high rectovaginal fistulas can be effectively treated by laparoscopy in the hands of experienced endoscopic surgeons.

Rectovestibular fistula with absent vagina: a unique anorectal malformation

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE

A very unusual anorectal defect consisting of a vestibular fistula and absent vagina is presented. Only two previous isolated reports were found in the literature describing a repair that included both abdominal and perineal approach. The authors present another technical alternative that allows the repair via posterior sagittal.

METHODS

Of 1,007 patients with anorectal malformations analyzed, eight female cases shared the common anatomic features of a vestibular fistula and absent vagina. What appeared to be the vagina was actually the rectal orifice ending in the vestibule, and the vagina was absent. With the posterior sagittal approach, the distal rectum was used to create the neovagina. The proximal rectum was mobilized and placed within the limits of the sphincter mechanism. Two of the eight patients were born with a patent upper third remnant of the vagina. In one case, the remnant was anastomosed to the neovagina at the time of colostomy closure; in the second one, the anastomosis was performed during the main repair.

RESULTS

Four patients are continent of urine and have voluntary bowel movements. One patient is younger than 3 years and therefore has not been evaluated. One patient has a very poor sacrum and therefore is incontinent. One patient had a primary repair elsewhere and therefore is excluded, and another patient is lost to follow-up. One patient is already sexually active.

CONCLUSIONS

It is mandatory to perform a meticulous inspection of the perineum in female patients with anorectal malformations to detect unusual defects. Also, a high index of suspicion is necessary to establish the diagnosis of this defect and avoid an inadequate treatment. The posterior sagittal approach represents another alternative to treat these defects without the need for a laparotomy.

Rectal sleeve advancement: repair of rectovaginal fistula associated with anorectal stricture in Crohn's disease

Successful repair of rectovaginal fistula in patients with Crohn's disease has been reported when these patients have a normal appearing rectum. We report the performance of stricturectomy in conjunction with circumferential rectal sleeve advancement for patients who have a rectovaginal fistula arising from an anorectal stricture secondary to Crohn's disease. This technique provides for repair of rectovaginal fistula and correction of the anal stricture and maintains continence.

[CHARGE association: report of a clinical case with anal atresia and rectovaginal fistula]

CHARGE association is a non-random constellation of Coloboma, Heart Disease, Atresia of the choana, Retarded mental development and growth, Genital hypoplasia, Ear anomalies and deafness. We report on a newborn with CHARGE association. In addition to the typical features our case presented anal atresia and rectovaginal fistula. Our patient had congenital cardiopathy and feeding problems and died at the age of 3 months. Most case of CHARGE association appear to have a primary defect of pharyngeal incoordination that cause aspiration of secretion that is an important cause of death in the nonsurvivors.

Rectovaginal fistulas. Therapeutic options

The management of RVF depends on size, location, and cause; anal sphincter function and overall health status of the patient; and the skill and judgment of the surgeon. Careful preoperative assessment of the fistula, surrounding tissues, and anal sphincter and exclusion of associated disease are essential. With thorough evaluation, thoughtful consideration of treatment options, and meticulous operative technique, patients can be assured of an optimal outcome. Success in treatment of patients with RVF should be measured not just in terms of successful closure of the fistula but also in terms of patient satisfaction with postoperative anal continence.

Management of genital fistulas in patients with cervical cancer

Among 2096 patients treated for cervical cancer between 1985-1995, genital fistulas developed in 38 cases (1.8%). 16 patients were affected by rectovaginal, 13 patients had rectovesicovaginal and 9 patients had vesicovaginal fistulas. Median age at time of first presentation of the fistulas was 54.8 years. Fistula size ranged from 0.1 to 2.0 cm in diameter. Faecal or urinary leakage through the vagina (44.7%), bleeding (31.5%) and local pain (5.3%) were major clinical symptoms. 10 patients had surgery for the fistula, the remaining patients were managed conservatively.

Fecal incontinence: transvaginal US evaluation of anatomic causes

PURPOSE

To evaluate transvaginal ultrasonography (US) as an alternative to transanal US for determining the anatomic cause of fetal incontinence in women.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Transvaginal US of the anal canal was performed in 28 women (aged 27-74 years) with fecal incontinence. A side-fire endorectal probe was inserted into the vagina and directed toward the posterior vaginal wall.

RESULTS

The internal anal sphincter (IAS) and external anal sphincter muscles were imaged as independent bands in all 28 patients. The calculated mean thickness of the IAS in patients aged younger than 55 years was not significantly different from that in patients aged older than 55 years (P=.31). Posttraumatic anterior muscle disruptions were detected in 16 women; three also had rectovaginal fistulas. A rectal fistula with abscess was detected in one of 12 patients with intact muscles. All muscle disruptions, fistulas, and abscesses were surgically confirmed.

CONCLUSION

Transvaginal US enables determination of the anatomic cause of fecal incontinence, allowing the surgeon to select patients who would benefit form surgical repair.

Full-thickness Martius grafts to preserve vaginal depth as an adjunct in the repair of large obstetric fistulas

We performed a modified bulbocavernosus full-thickness pedicle graft procedure on four patients with large obstetric fistulas in Ghana, West Africa. The bulbocavernosus fat pad was harvested in the usual manner, and the full-thickness skin patch was taken from the medial thigh. All grafts showed 100% take by the tenth postoperative day. Adequate vaginal depth and caliber were obtained in all patients. Sexual function resumed in all patients except one, who suffered a recurrent vesicovaginal fistula. This method of vaginoplasty may be useful in patients who have massive vaginal-wall destruction of either gynecologic or obstetric origin.

Case report: an unusual association of a rectovaginal fistula with the Currarino triad

Currarino et al. in 1981 described an association between an anterior sacral defect, congenital anorectal stenosis or another type of low anorectal malformation and a presacral mass. We are only aware of one previous report in the English literature of the association of a rectovaginal fistula with this triad and to our knowledge the association has not been described in the radiological literature.