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Clin Colon Rectal Surg 2016; 29(01): 050-056
DOI: 10.1055/s-0035-1570393
Review Article
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Rectovaginal Fistulae

Bidhan Das
1   Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Texas-Houston, Houston, Texas
,
Michael Snyder
2   Department of Surgery, University of Texas-Houston, Houston, Texas
› Author Affiliations
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Publication History

Publication Date:
16 February 2016 (online)

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Abstract

Rectovaginal fistulae are abnormal epithelialized connections between the rectum and vagina. Fistulae from the anorectal region to the posterior vagina are truly best characterized as anovaginal or very low rectovaginal fistulae. True rectovaginal fistulae are less common and result from inflammatory bowel disease, trauma, or iatrogenic injury. A very few patients are asymptomatic, but the symptoms of rectovaginal fistula are incredibly distressing and unacceptable. Diagnostic approach, timing, and choice of surgical intervention, including sphincteroplasty, gracilis flaps, Martius flaps, and special circumstances are discussed.

Keywords

anovaginal fistula - rectovaginal fistula - advancement flap - Martius flap - fistula plug
 

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