About Rectovaginal Fistula
Key Highlights
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Effectively closes the abnormal connection between the rectum and vagina.Restores normal bowel and vaginal function, preventing involuntary passage of stool or gas.Significantly improves personal hygiene, comfort, and quality of life.Performed by specialists with expertise in pelvic floor anatomy.Utilizes various surgical approaches (e.g., transvaginal, transanal) tailored to the individual case.Aims for a durable repair with a low risk of recurrence when performed correctly./ul
Who is this surgery for?
- Obstetric injury or trauma during prolonged or difficult childbirth (most common cause).
- Complications from pelvic surgery, such as hysterectomy or rectal surgery.
- Inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn's disease.
- Radiation therapy for pelvic cancers (e.g., cervical, rectal).
- Infections or abscesses in the perirectal or vaginal area.
- Trauma from accidents or foreign bodies.
- Presence of symptoms like passage of stool, gas, or pus from the vagina, and recurrent vaginal infections.
How to prepare
- Complete medical evaluation and diagnosis via physical exam, imaging (MRI, endoanal ultrasound), or sigmoidoscopy.
- Management of any active infection or inflammation in the area prior to surgery.
- Bowel preparation, which may include a clear liquid diet and laxatives or enemas to empty the colon.
- Pre-operative counseling to discuss the procedure, risks, and expected outcomes.
- Discontinuation of certain medications (e.g., blood thinners) as advised by the doctor.
- Fasting for 8-12 hours before the scheduled surgery time.
Risks & possible complications
- Infection at the surgical site or in the pelvis.
- Bleeding or hematoma formation.
- Recurrence of the fistula.
- Injury to nearby structures like the anal sphincter, which could affect bowel control.
- Pain or discomfort during the healing period.
- Scar tissue formation (stricture) in the vagina or rectum.
- Risks associated with anesthesia.
- Delayed wound healing, especially in patients with poor nutrition or who smoke.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Hospital stay typically required for initial pain management and monitoring.
- Pain relief medication and antibiotics may be prescribed.
- A soft or liquid diet is recommended initially, gradually transitioning to a high-fiber diet to prevent constipation.
- Sitz baths (warm water soaks) are often advised to keep the area clean and promote healing.
- Avoidance of strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and sexual intercourse for several weeks as directed.
- Follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor healing and check for any signs of recurrence.
- Full recovery of strength and resumption of all normal activities may take several weeks to months.
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Typical hospital stay: 3-5 days
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Expected recovery time: 4-6 weeks for initial recovery; up to 3 months for full healing and activity resumption
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering rectovaginal fistula in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Popular choices for rectovaginal fistula in India include Kamineni Hospital, King Koti, Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Manipal Hospital Mukundapur, SIMS Hospital Vadapalani, Manipal Hospital Dwarka, known for experienced specialists and advanced surgical infrastructure.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform rectovaginal fistula. MediFyr helps you compare obstetrics and gynaecologists and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for rectovaginal fistula compare across other countries where we have data.
| Country | Estimated cost range | Typical stay | Recovery time | View details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| India | INR 80 Thousand – 250 Thousand | 3-5 days | ~ 4-6 weeks for initial recovery; up to 3 months for full healing and activity resumption | Know More |
| Turkey | TRY 280 Thousand – 875 Thousand | 3-5 days | ~ 4-6 weeks for initial recovery; up to 3 months for full healing and activity resumption | Know More |
Top hospitals for Rectovaginal Fistula in India
These partner hospitals in India have dedicated obstetrics and gynaecology teams and experience managing patients undergoing rectovaginal fistula.
Sneha Chopra, a 32-year-old software engineer...
Sneha Chopra, a 32-year-old software engineer and new mother, had a traumatic vaginal delivery six months ago requiring forceps. For weeks after, she noticed a persistent, foul-smelling vaginal discharge and occasional leakage of stool, especially when passing gas. Initially attributing it to postpartum recovery, she grew increasingly distressed as it didn't resolve. Her OB-GYN, Dr. Mehta, diagnosed a small rectovaginal fistula, likely from the birth trauma. He recommended a surgical repair called a fistulotomy. The procedure, done under spinal anesthesia, was laparoscopic and minimally invasive. Post-surgery, Sneha spent two days in the hospital on a liquid diet to allow healing. Full recovery took six weeks, with strict instructions to avoid straining. The fistula healed completely. Emotionally, Sneha felt isolated and 'broken' before surgery, struggling with intimacy and fearing she was a burden. After recovery, she felt a profound sense of relief and wholeness, allowing her to fully embrace motherhood and her relationship with renewed confidence.
Obstetrics and Gynaecologists for Rectovaginal Fistula
Explore experienced obstetrics and gynaecologists who regularly perform rectovaginal fistula and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.
- 29 Years Experience
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Miot Hospital Chennai, Chennai
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Miot Hospital Chennai, Chennai
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Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore
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Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur, Bangalore
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Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bangalore
- 23 Years Experience
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Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bangalore
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Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bangalore
- 14 Years Experience
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Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bangalore
- 12 Years Experience
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Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road, Bangalore
- 25 Years Experience
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- 16 Years Experience
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- 30 Years Experience
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Manipal Hospital Whitefield, Bangalore
- 26 Years Experience
- Obstetrics and Gynaecologist
Manipal Hospital Whitefield, Bangalore
- 24 Years Experience
- Obstetrics and Gynaecologist
Manipal Hospital Whitefield, Bangalore
- 17 Years Experience
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Manipal Hospital Whitefield, Bangalore
- 15 Years Experience
- Obstetrics and Gynaecologist
Manipal Hospital Whitefield, Bangalore
- 25 Years Experience
- Obstetrics and Gynaecologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 30 Years Experience
- Obstetrics and Gynaecologist
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore