Rectovaginal Fistula with Anastomotic Stricture Post Anterior Resection – Sphincter Preservation, a Viable Option

Abstract

Rectovaginal fistula [RVF] is a devastating complication of anterior resection whose incidence worldwide is on a rise with widespread use of staplers for the rectal anastomosis. It is a special surgical challenge for the treating surgeon with limited suitable options available to treat this difficult situation. As there is no consensus on its management, most often patient ends up with permanent stoma and overall inferior quality of life. We are presenting a case of post anterior resection RVF which was treated with intersphincteric resection followed by hand sewn coloanal anastomosis. An intersphincteric resection avoids dissection in a previously violated rectovaginal plane and improves chances of sphincter preservation. A well vascularized colonic graft with hand sewn coloanal anastomoses well below the site of fistula and omental interposition further avoids the chances of recurrence of fistula.