Feasibility of Gracilis Muscle Flap Interposition for Management of Recurrent Rectovesical/Rectourethral Fistulas: A Single Centre Expertise

Abstract

Background: Recurrent rectovesical fistulas are a serious burden for the affected patient. Depending on the size and location of the fistula, the underlying disease as well as the preceding therapies, a definitive surgical treatment of the fistula should be the main goal. We analysed the technique of the transposition of the gracilis muscle as a therapeutical option. Methods: We analysed data from 3 male patients who were diagnosed with a recurrent rectovesical fistula and were treated by the transposition of the gracilis muscle in the surgical department of Klinikum Oldenburg. Results: All 3 patients suffered from prostate cancer and were already treated by a different surgical approach while one patient had a second recurrence. Complications arose in two cases in the form of fistula recurrence. Conclusion: Our study has shown that the interposition of the gracilis muscle provides an option to treat rectovesical fistulas.