Re: ctal vaginal fistula
From: Harvey S. Marchbein, M.D. (anonymous@obgyn.net)
Mon, 28 Jan 2002 18:40:04 -0600 (CST)
To assess this, exam is absolutely necessary.
As far as future surgery, if this doesn't resolve by itself (they've
been know to do just that from time to time) you may need a diverting
colostomy to aid in healing for the next procedure.
Hope this helps and write back anytime for more information.
Dr. M
At Sun, 27 Jan 2002, Shannon wrote:
>
>Doctors: please help!
>I've had 2 surgeries to fix a rectal vaginal fistula resulting from a
>4th degree tear from delivering my daughter. The first surgery, by a
>obgyn, was unsuccessful from the beginning. Eighteen months later I had
>a second repair by a colon/rectal surgeon. I signed consent forms for a
>temporary colastomy and muscle transfer to rebuild the wall between the
>rectum and vagina. I ended up having neither performed, as he thought
>I'd heal fine without. I had no evidence of a fistula for 5 1/2 weeks
>following surgery. I then developed an infection and started to have
>stool and gas leakage through the vagina. I've been on anti biotics for
>6 weeks because of reoccuring infections. I'm finally off anti biotics,
>but I'm still sore at the vaginal opening, slightly towards the
>rectum.It's been 3 months since my surgery,I'm very sore and I'm still
>having gas and stool-however either small amounts or I can go a few days
>with none.My surgeon thinks it's still healing, but hasn't actually
>examined the vaginal area. He did a rectal ultra sound and found no
>absess and cannot see or feel a fistula when he did a rectal exam.
>However, since I have the symptoms he says there probably is one. I've
>asked to be referred to an obgyn to assess the pain problem.
>
>What could the pain be from? It's a numbing prickly feeling-hurts to
>sit/walk.
>Is there a chance this fistula could heal?
>Do I risk getting another repair?
>Thank you,
>Shannon
>
>--
>Shannon
>
--
Harvey S. Marchbein, M.D. FACOG, FACS
Great Neck, New York
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