English
Solutions in Anal Incontinence and Recto Vaginal Fistulas Surgery

Solutions in Anal Incontinence and Recto Vaginal Fistulas Surgery

Solutions in Anal Incontinence and Recto Vaginal Fistulas Surgery

Both of these conditions —anal incontinence and rectovaginal fistulas —-are embarrassing and can affect your daily life. Even though childbirth is the common cause of both of these conditions, anal incontinence can develop as a consequence of rectovaginal fistulas. Anal incontinence and rectovaginal fistulas can be treated with various surgical and non-surgical solutions. Both solutions aim to address the underlying cause and restore normal function, improving the life of the patient. 

In anal incontinence, the patient is not able to control or manage bowel movements, causing leakage of poop. Anal incontinence can be treated with dietary changes, medications, exercises, and surgery. Sphincteroplasty is the most commonly used surgical solution for repairing damaged or weakened anal sphincter muscles. In the rectovaginal fistula, holes develop between the rectum and vagina, causing leakage of poop or gas through the vagina. Though small fistulas can heal on their own with time, medications are also given to avoid infection. Most of the time, for the closure of the fistula, surgery is the only solution. Its surgical options include using a tissue graft, a temporary or permanent Colostomy, and Advancement Flap Repair. 

To make an informed decision regarding which treatment option is best for your condition, it is better to consult our team of experienced gynaecologists and colorectal surgeons at Manipal Hospitals, Broadway, Kolkata. We aim to alleviate the symptoms and related complications of these debilitating conditions, offering the most appropriate solutions in anal incontinence and recto vaginal fistulas surgery in Broadway tailored to the patient's specific needs and circumstances. We use cutting-edge technologies and are adept at performing minimally invasive techniques for more complex surgeries. Regular follow-ups and adherence to post-operative care are crucial for achieving the best possible outcomes.

 

FAQ's

Symptoms of rectovaginal fistula include:

 

  • Foul-smelling vaginal discharge

  • Abdominal pain

  • Diarrohea

  • Faecal Incontinence (passing stool or gas)

  • Painful intercourse

  • Rectal or vaginal bleeding

  • Recurrent urinary tract or vaginal infections

  • Skin irritation in the vagina

  • Unexplained weight loss

For a proper diagnosis, it's important to tell the doctor about all your symptoms. Then a physical pelvic exam will be performed, and certain diagnostic tests will be performed for confirmation if required. These are:

 

  • Blood tests and urine tests (CBC and urinalysis)

  • Dye test (methylene enema, barium enema)

  • Fistulogram X-ray 

  • Pelvic CT scan and MRI

  • Flexible sigmoidoscopy

  • Colonoscopy

Its treatment aims to repair the fistula and relieve its symptoms. The treatment will depend on the size, location, cause, and effect on surrounding tissues. The surgeon usually waits 3-6 months before the surgery for it to heal on its own. Silk or latex string may also be used to drain any infection.

The treatment options are:

 

  • Medications (antibiotics and infliximab)

  • Managing underlying conditions

  • Dietary modifications

  • Surgery 

    • Removing the fistula

    • Using a tissue graft for repairing

    • Repairing the anal sphincter muscles

    • Colostomy (temporary or permanent) before repairing the fistula in complex cases

The complications of Rectovaginal Fistula include:

 

  • Recurrent vaginal or urinary tract infections

  • Fistula recurrence

  • Faecal Incontinence

  • Irritation or inflammation in the vagina or perineum

  • Pus-filled sore in the fistula

  • Low-self esteem

  • Intimacy issues

The symptoms of anal incontinence are generally associated with other bowel movements. These include:

 

  • Leakage of stools while passing gas or while coughing 

  • Passing stool before reaching the toilet

  • Poop leakage during exercising

  • Uncontrollable movement of poop

  • Finding poop in your underwear after your regular bowel movement 

Instead of feeling embarrassed about sharing these symptoms with the doctor, it's important to get yourself evaluated as soon as possible to alleviate these symptoms. 

Various factors increase your risk of developing anal incontinence. These include:

 

  • Nerve damage

  • Dementia

  • Physical disability

  • Being female

  • Aging

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and do a physical or rectal exam. Discuss everything you are experiencing freely for a proper diagnosis. To find the cause of leakage, some other tests may be done, such as:

 

  • Anorectal manometry

  • Balloon expulsion test

  • Endorectal ultrasound or MRI

  • Anal sphincter electromyography

  • Pudendal nerve terminal motor latency test

  • Endoscopy

  • Defecography

  • Blood and stool tests

The treatment for anal incontinence depends on its cause and severity. The treatment options are:

 

  • Dietary changes

  • Exercises and training (bowel training, kegel exercises)

  • Medications (for diarrhea or constipation)

  • Surgery (Sphincteroplasty, Artificial Anal Sphincter Placement, Sacral Nerve Stimulation, Antegrade Colonic Enema Surgery, Colostomy)

Seek consultation from our experienced surgeons, who will help in determining the right treatment option for your condition. 
 

Note down everything you eat or drink daily and which foods help with less or healthy bowel movements. Then avoid the foods that cause trouble. The dietary changes include:

Avoid foods that can loosen your stools and lead to diarrhea. 

  • Dairy products

  • Artificial sweeteners

  • Spicy foods

  • Beans and cabbage 

  • Caffeine, alcohol, prunes, and fruit juices

Prevent constipation:

  • Eat fiber-rich foods (fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, and nuts)

  • Drink more water

The complications of anal incontinence include the following:

  • Emotional distress

  • Skin irritation

  • Poor nutrition

  • Social distress

Anal incontinence can be improved or prevented by taking the following actions:

 

  • Controlling diarrhoea

  • Do not strain during bowel movements

  • Reducing the chances of constipation

  • Not delaying treatment (if needed for bowel movements)

  • Dietary changes

Yes, if the underlying cause of the rectovaginal fistula is not treated successfully, it can come back. Get appropriate treatment from our qualified surgeons, who are experienced in handling simple to complex cases. 

The recovery time depends on the type of surgery conducted and your overall health. It can take several weeks to months for a full recovery. It's advisable to avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, straining, and sexual intercourse for some time. Also, follow all the post-operative instructions given by the doctor and be regular with follow-up checkups.

Home Broadway Specialities Organ-transplant Solutions-in-anal-incontinence-and-recto-vaginal-fistulas-surgery-2

Appointment
Health Check
Contact Us
review icon
Review Us
Call Us