Patient's question:
AgeDetailed medical condition and consultation purpose: At birth, she had anorectal atresia, and her bowel movements were discharged through the vaginal opening. She urgently needs surgery to correct this condition. Could her symptoms be restored to normal through surgery? Where can such surgery be performed? Is it risky? I desperately hope for your help!!! Thank you!
First follow-up question: I hope the expert can provide more detailed guidance.
Doctor's answer:
Hello: It can be repaired through surgery. There is no significant risk, and general level 3 hospitals with plastic surgery departments can perform the procedure. For congenital rectovaginal fistulas in children, if there are no bowel movement difficulties or other complications, early surgery may not be necessary. Surgery can be considered after the age of 5.There are many surgical methods for rectovaginal fistulas, and the surgical approach alone is divided into transabdominal perineal repair and perineal repair. Perineal repair can further be categorized into transvaginal and transrectal repair. Given the complex etiology, diverse types, high rates of postoperative infection and recurrence, and the difficulty of revision surgery for rectovaginal fistulas, it is best for the surgery to be successful on the first attempt. The success of the surgery depends not only on the choice of technique but also on the selection of the optimal timing for the procedure.