WOMENS-HEALTH Messages for August, 1997: Re: cto/vaginal fistula

Re: cto/vaginal fistula

From: Kelly (anonymous@obgyn.net)
Thu, 28 Aug 1997 19:58:34 -0500 (CDT)

Messages sorted by: [ date ][ thread ][ subject ][ author ]
Next message: Kelly: "Re: hysterectomy"
Previous message: Kelly: "(no subject)"
In reply to: nyb: "recto/vaginal fistula"

>Dear physicians,
>I desperately need your assistance. .........
>I delivered vaginally about 4 months ago. A week after delivery I
>developed a recto/vaginal fistula. My physician advised me to see if it
>would heal on its own up until 2 weeks ago. I went through surgery for
>repair. Almost 2 weeks later I am still having the problem of leakage
>of bowel contents and gas.
>I am very dissapointed and feel helpless. I am also a professional and
>this problem needs to be fixed but no physician has clearly laid out
>what to do. Please help.

Sometimes rectovaginal fistulas are difficult to repair. Sometimes it requires diverting the bowel contents (a colostomy) so the tissues around the fistula become less inflamed and will heal better after a repair. Often, a surgeon very experienced in repairing rectovaginal fistulas may be needed if hte fistula is large or has not responded to previous treatment. You should talk to your doctor about what your options are. You may want to ask for a referral to a gynecologist who has done additional training in pelvic reconstructive surgery.

-- Kelly Shanahan, MD, FACOG S. Lake Tahoe, CA

note: Opinions here are for educational purposes only. This information is not intended to supplant the need for you to consult with your own physician. It cannot take the place of a face to face consultation and examination.

Next message: Kelly: "Re: hysterectomy"
Previous message: Kelly: "(no subject)"
In reply to: nyb: "recto/vaginal fistula"

Women's Insurance Checklist from Auto Insurance Quote

use when must restrict search to only the women's health forum...
Enter search keywords:
	Returns per screen: Require all keywords: