What is Rectovaginal Fistula?
Rectovaginal Fistula
A vaginal fistula is a type of abnormal opening in the vaginal canal. The vagina connects to other organs such as the bladder or the rectum through this hole. A vaginal fistula is a hole in the vaginal canal that allows feces or urine to leak out of the vagina. When the tissues inside the vagina die, they lead to the formation of these tunnel-like holes. As the hole develops, it gradually connects to organs in the urinary or digestive systems. Vaginal fistulas come in a variety of shapes and sizes, depending on which organ they connect to. A rectovaginal fistula connects the vagina to the lower part of the large intestine.
Surgery will be recommended in cases of serious fistulas. When it comes to vaginal fistulas, surgery is required in the majority of cases. With the help of the patient’s own tissues or surgical mesh, the medical professional repairs the rectovaginal fistula. A vaginal fistula can be repaired through the abdomen or through the vagina. If the opening is very large, then the patient might have to undergo a temporary colostomy. This procedure will prevent the stool from entering the rectum until the fistula is healed. The stool will exit the body through a surgical opening known as a stoma.
- PROCEDURE NAME : Rectovaginal Fistula
- SURGERY TYPE: Minimally Invasive LASER
- HOSPITALIZATION: HOSPITALIZATION
- SURGERY DURATION: 30 minutes
- ANAESTHESIA: Spinal Block / General Anaesthesia
- FULL RECOVERY: 3 - 4 days
TREATMENTS
Diagnosis
A physical examination will be performed by the health care practitioner to check for vaginal fistulas. A pelvic exam will also be performed on the patient. To rule out any possible infections, blood tests and urinalysis will be performed. Fistulograms will be performed to determine the fistula’s size and condition. A CT scan is used to examine the vaginal and urinary systems. Dye tests are also used to check for leaks between the rectum and the vagina. A flexible sigmoidoscopy might be done to closely observe the colon. A colonoscopy is done in certain cases as well.
Surgery
If the fistulas are small and mild, there’s a chance they’ll heal on their own. The patients will be given medications to help them recover. Antibiotics are usually prescribed to fight off infections and get rid of fistulas. Temporary catheters or stents may be used in some circumstances to aid in the healing of the fistula. Surgery will be recommended in cases of serious fistulas. When it comes to vaginal fistulas, surgery is required in the majority of cases. With the help of the patient’s own tissues or surgical mesh, the medical professional repairs the rectovaginal fistula. A vaginal fistula can be repaired through the abdomen or through the vagina. If the opening is very large, then the patient might have to undergo a temporary colostomy. This procedure will prevent the stool from entering the rectum until the fistula is healed. The stool will exit the body through a surgical opening known as a stoma.
Causes
- Chronic constipation
- Nausia
- obesity
Symptoms
- Discomfort while sitting
- Painful bowel movements
- Swelling & Itching
- Excessive Bleeding
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a rectovaginaal fistula?
In a rectovaginal fistula, the opening in the vagina connects with the lower part of the large intestine or rectum.
How long does it take for a rectovaginal fistula to heal?
A rectovaginal fistula takes three to six months to heal.
Are rectovaginal fistulas painful?
Rectovaginal fistulas cause abdominal pain and discomfort.
Is surgery required to treat a rectovaginal fistula?
Miner fistulas will heal on their own. If the fistula is severe then surgery might be required.
What are the major symptoms of rectovaginal fistulas?
One of the major symptoms displayed by rectovaginal fistulas is the abdominal pain experienced by the person. Since the fistula connects the vagina and the rectum, stool or gas might leak out of the vagina.
