Management of Rectovaginal Fistulas at the National Obstetric Fistula Centre, Abakaliki over a 5-year Period

Abstract

Objective: To share our experience in the management of rectovaginal fistula.

Methods

This was a retrospective study conducted at the National Obstetric Fistula Centre, Abakaliki, South-East Nigeria. The case folders of patients that had rectovaginal fistula between January 2012 and December 2016 were reviewed. Data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences, version 21.

Results

The records of 21 out of 26 patients who had rectovaginal fistula were available for review. The mean age was 31 ± 9 years. Majority (95.24%) were Christians. Twenty (95.24%) of  the cases were low rectovaginal fistula. The risk factors for rectovaginal fistula were mainly episiotomy, perineal tears during labour and prolonged obstructed labour Two (10%) out of the 20 patients that had surgery had minor complications. There was no mortality. The success rate after the first repair was 85% for those that were offered surgery.

Conclusion

The study suggests a good outcome for the patients reviewed with minimal complications.

Keywords: Rectovaginal fistula, episiotomy, perineal tear.