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Has anyone had personal experience with rectovaginal fistula repair?
Ostomy & J-Pouch | Last Active: Jun 24 1:39pm | Replies (95)Comment receiving replies
@lhstephenson You might try getting an appointment with Mayo to see what they can tell you. They have been doing j-pouches since the 80s so they may have some experience that will help. If you go to the home page, scroll to the bottom, there is a button to request an appointment.
It also depends on what caused the fistula. In my case it turned out that it was Crohn's Disease, and a reconstructed pouch would very likely have the same pouchitis, fissures and abscesses. Plus my anal muscle was compromised.
Just know that the permanent ileostomy won't be the same as your temporary was, if it turns out you don't have another option.
Do you know what caused the fistula?
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@susanf8 not really sure what caused the fistula, but I have my suspicions. I noticed an unusual bulge in my vaginal area approximately 15 years ago. I went to a rectal physician who diagnosed it as a rectocele. About five or so years ago, I noticed air discharge from the area and upon palpitation I could feel a small bump. I guess this was probably the beginning of the fistula. I was referred to a gynecologist who said he would be unable to repair it because my entire rectum was removed and there’s no tissue for a rectal flap. I guess that’s the main issue the rectal surgeon in Dallas had. He tried to sew up the fistula and that did not work. I have no problem with traveling to the Mayo Clinic, but I think we have fabulous physicians in Texas, I just need to find one that has experience with my particular issue. I would not be against using mesh to seal the fistula, although no one uses mesh anymore, except with hernia repair in the abdomen area. I guess I’m just searching for a surgeon who’s had experience with this kind of issue.