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Rectovaginal Fistula

  • John Kuckelman
  • Eric K. Johnson
Chapter
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Abstract

Rectovaginal fistula is relatively commonly encountered in a surgical practice and especially in a subspecialty environment. It is typically very easy to diagnose and is associated with symptoms of feculent vaginal drainage as well as passage of air/flatus via the vagina. This can be extremely distressing for those affected. The treatment of this disorder can be quite complex and is associated with high failure rates.

This chapter serves to provide a basic algorithm for workup and treatment of this disorder in the majority of clinical scenarios. It is essential to be familiar with a treatment algorithm, and it should be followed in a very logical order to ensure optimal patient outcomes.

Keywords

Rectovaginal fistula Obstetrical trauma Fecal incontinence Martius flap Endorectal advancement flap Episioproctotomy 
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Copyright information

© Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2019

Authors and Affiliations

  • John Kuckelman
    • 1
    • 2
  • Eric K. Johnson
    • 3
    • 4
  1. 1.Department of General SurgeryMadigan Army Medical CenterTacomaUSA
  2. 2.Uniformed Services University of the Health SciencesBethesdaUSA
  3. 3.Cleveland Clinic FoundationClevelandUSA
  4. 4.Department of Surgery, Division of Colorectal SurgeryHillcrest HospitalMayfield HeightsUSA

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