Vaginal fistula is an unusual opening that connects the vagina to another nearby organ in females. These openings can occur between the vagina and various organs such as the rectum, urinary bladder, urethra, ureter, and small and large intestines. This discussion focuses on the management of fistulas connecting the vagina to the rectum or bladder.
Plastic surgeons become involved in the treatment of vaginal fistulas, particularly rectovaginal or difficult recurrent vagino-bladder fistulas when other surgical specialists like gynecologists and urologists have exhausted alternative options. Fistulas located at higher positions within the abdominal region are typically managed by urologists and general surgeons.
The primary cause of vaginal fistulas is damage to the tissues between the vagina and another organ due to various factors, including:
Vaginal fistulas can be distressing for women due to symptoms such as:
Diagnosing vaginal fistula involves a pelvic examination and a review of the patient’s medical and surgical history to identify risk factors such as recent surgeries, infections, or radiation therapy. Additional investigations may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis and determine the number and extent of fistulas:
Treatment approaches for vaginal fistulas vary based on factors such as the size of the fistula and its location:
Plastic surgeons play a critical role when recurrent fistulas connect the vagina to the bladder or rectum. In these cases, plastic surgeons use healthy tissue from another area of the body to seal the fistula. The procedure involves bringing a well-vascularized muscle and pedicled flap from the thigh to create a proper seal between the rectum and vagina, allowing for successful healing.
Failed fistula surgeries often involve inflamed and scarred margins of the fistula and its surrounding area, which may not hold sutures, leading to repeated fistula formation.
The surgery for recurrent rectovaginal fistula involves the introduction of healthy tissue from the thigh, usually in the form of a muscle and well-vascularized pedicle flap. This flap is inserted between the rectum and the vagina to promote proper healing. The procedure is typically performed under regional anesthesia in a lithotomy position and takes approximately one to two hours.
Where Compassionate Care Meets Advanced Medicine, Guiding You on the Path to Recovery and Well-being.
A Vaginal Fistula is an abnormal connection or passageway between the vagina and another organ or structure, such as the bladder or rectum. It can result in the unintended leakage of fluids or waste into the vagina.
Vaginal Fistulas can result from childbirth complications, surgical procedures, pelvic trauma, or underlying medical conditions. Factors such as prolonged labor or infections can contribute to their development.
Symptoms may include urinary or fecal incontinence, vaginal discharge, and discomfort. Vaginal Fistulas can have a significant impact on an individual’s quality of life and emotional well-being.
Diagnosis often involves a physical examination, medical history, and diagnostic tests such as imaging studies or specialized tests to determine the type, size, and location of the Fistula.
Treatment options may include surgical repair of the Fistula. Plastic surgeons are often involved in these procedures, contributing their expertise in tissue reconstruction and restoration of normal anatomy.
Kayakriti Clinic specializes in Vaginal Fistula repair and offers a multidisciplinary approach to ensure comprehensive care. Plastic surgeons are integral to the surgical and reconstructive aspects of the treatment, once all other options have been exhausted.
Privacy is of utmost importance to us. Rest assured, all your personal and medical information is handled with strict confidentiality.
Our Surgeon is highly qualified and internationally certified with a team of skilled staff to perform any surgical or non-surgical treatment on your body.
Safety is our priority. We maintain stringent protocols to ensure a secure environment for all patients and staff members.
Breast augmentation and breast reduction are two very different procedures. Augmentation (breast enlargement) increases breast volume and alters shape, usually for cosmetic or reconstructive goals. Reduction removes breast tissue and skin to make breasts smaller and relieve symptoms. In general, augmentation is chosen by patients who want fuller, more symmetrical breasts (or as reconstruction after…
Rhinoplasty, commonly known as a “nose job,” is a surgical procedure to reshape the nose. It can be performed for cosmetic enhancement of appearance or for functional improvement of breathing (and often both). If you’re medically informed and considering rhinoplasty, it’s important to understand the types of rhinoplasty, what the surgery involves, and how the…
When diet and exercise don’t address certain stubborn fat deposits, liposuction can be a safe and effective solution—when chosen for the right reasons and in the right patient. As a commonly performed body-contouring procedure, liposuction reshapes specific areas of the body rather than serving as a weight-loss method. At Kayakriti Plastic Surgery & Dental Center…
