Rectovaginal fistula is an abnormal connection between the rectum and the vagina. Gas or stool may leak from the bowel into the vagina.
Some rectovaginal fistulas close on their own. Most will need a surgery for repair. This condition can be treated. Contact your doctor if you think you may have a fistula.
The most common cause of a rectovaginal fistula is injury during childbirth. Other causes include:
If you have any of these, do not assume it is due to a fistula. These symptoms may be caused by other conditions. Talk to your doctor if you have:
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. You may need to see a colon and rectal surgeon.
Tests may include the following:
Talk with your doctor about the best plan for you. Treatment options include the following:
Surgery is usually needed. It is done to close the opening between the rectum and vagina. Tissue may be taken from another part of the body as a graft. This tissue will help to close the fistula.
You may be given antibiotics if the area around the fistula is infected.
RESOURCES:
The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
http://www.acog.org/publications/patient_education/
American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons
http://www.fascrs.org/
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons
http://www.cscrs.ca/
Women's Health Matters
http://www.womenshealthmatters.ca/index.cfm
References:
Rectovaginal fistula. Mayo Clinic. http://www.mayoclinic.com. Accessed February 2, 2010.
Wheeless CR, Roenneburg ML. Rectovaginal fistula repair. Atlas of Pelvic Surgery. Online Edition. http://www.atlasofpelvicsurgery.com/2VaginalandUrethra/14RectovaginalFistulaRepair/chap2sec14.html. Accessed February 2, 2010.
Last reviewed February 2010 by Ganson Purcell Jr., MD, FACOG, FACPE
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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