Rectovestibular fistulas (simply vestibular fistulas) are anorectal congenital disorders. In this condition, the rectum and the vulval vestibule of the female genitalia have an improper connection (fistula).
Patients with rectovestibular fistulae may get abnormal dilatation of the colon and severe constipation later in life if a colostomy is not done right away after delivery or is delayed. For effective recto vestibular fistula surgery in Siliguri, you might see Dr. Manish Madhav.
Rectovestibular Fistula: An Overview
An irregular connection between the vestibule and the rectum results in a rectovestibular fistula, usually identified in the newborn stage. It is one of the most common forms of anorectal abnormalities in girls.
A colostomy is typically the first line of therapy, and posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP) or another final surgical repair is the next step. When repairing an anorectal malformation (ARM) with a rectovestibular fistula, the posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP) makes a posterior sagittal incision to the coccyx as well as cutting the skin of the perineal body and the sphincter muscles.
Long-term success also depends on reproductive development, urinary health, and bowel function, even though the immediate objective of surgery. This is because it helps build a functioning and anatomically suitable anus.
Understanding the Possible Long-term Complications
Fecal Incontinence
Fecal incontinence is among the most prevalent and major long-term consequences of vestibular fistula. The pelvic floor and anal sphincter muscles may be weak or injured even after a successful surgical repair.
It may cause problems with controlling bowel motions may result from this, particularly if the fistula is linked to more complicated abnormalities. As a kid gets older, fecal incontinence can have an impact on social relationships and self-esteem.
Constipation
Kids who have a rectovestibular fistula are also more likely to experience ongoing constipation. This may be linked to psychological issues, sphincter dysfunction, or colon dysmotility.
Painful bowel motions caused by constipation may trigger withholding behavior or worsen current symptoms. Overflow incontinence can result from severe constipation and can result in soiling. When impacted feces fill the colon due to constipation, liquid stool leaks out, causing encopresis, also known as fecal incontinence or soiling.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
Urinary tract infections are more likely to occur because of the proximity of the rectal hole to the urethra, especially if cleanliness is poor. Both before and following surgical correction, there is a risk of UTIs. These infections may cause further health issues if they are recurrent or not properly treated.
Gynecological Concerns
Your kid (female) may show some long-term gynecological problems. These include vaginal scarring, and dyspareunia, which is painful sexual activity later in age. Help from an expert like a gynecologist can be of great help.
Psychosocial Effects
Anorectal abnormalities are not an exception to the emotional and social difficulties that children with long-term medical disorders many times face. Mental health can be impacted by the shame that comes with incontinence, discomfort from frequent hospital stays, and body image problems.
Peer support groups and supportive therapy may be very helpful, besides medical care support. Get medical support from the best pediatric surgeon for recto vestibular fistula surgery in siliguri.
Further Surgery
Additional surgical intervention may be necessary in some situations due to problems from the first operation, such as recurring fistula, neo-anus misplacement, or anal stenosis (narrowing). These operations may worsen intestinal function and come with their own risks.
Even though a rectovestibular fistula may be surgically repaired, there is a chance that it could cause long-term issues that could impact psychological health, reproductive development, bowel function, and urinary health. To receive the best fistula treatment in Siliguri, meet the most trusted child surgeon.