Rectovaginal Fistula Repair Treatment in Turkey
About Rectovaginal Fistula Repair
Key Highlights
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Effectively closes the abnormal tract between rectum and vagina.Alleviates distressing symptoms like fecal incontinence through the vagina.Reduces the risk of recurrent pelvic and vaginal infections.Significantly improves personal hygiene and quality of life.Performed by specialists with deep expertise in complex pelvic anatomy.Utilizes advanced surgical techniques (e.g., tissue flaps) to promote healing./ul
Who is this surgery for?
- Obstetric injury or trauma during childbirth (most common cause).
- Complications from pelvic surgeries like hysterectomy.
- Inflammatory bowel diseases, particularly Crohn's disease.
- Radiation therapy for pelvic cancers (e.g., cervical, rectal).
- Pelvic infections or abscesses that erode tissue.
- Trauma to the perineal or pelvic region.
- Congenital malformations (rare).
How to prepare
- Comprehensive evaluation including physical exam, imaging (MRI fistulogram), and possibly endoscopy.
- Management of any active infection or inflammation (e.g., in Crohn's disease) before surgery.
- Bowel preparation (clear liquid diet, laxatives) to empty the colon.
- Pre-operative counseling to discuss surgical approach, risks, and recovery expectations.
- Discontinuation of certain medications (e.g., blood thinners) as advised by the surgeon.
- Fasting for 8-12 hours prior to the procedure.
Risks & possible complications
- Recurrence of the fistula.
- Infection at the surgical site or in the pelvis.
- Bleeding or hematoma formation.
- Injury to surrounding structures (sphincter muscles, bladder).
- Pain or discomfort during intercourse (dyspareunia).
- Stool incontinence or urgency (temporary or permanent).
- Scar tissue formation (stricture) in the vagina or rectum.
- Risks associated with anesthesia.
Recovery & hospital stay
- Hospital stay typically required for pain management and initial monitoring.
- A temporary stool softener or low-residue diet may be recommended to allow healing.
- Sitz baths (warm water soaks) to keep the area clean and promote comfort.
- Avoidance of strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and sexual intercourse for several weeks.
- Close follow-up with the surgeon to monitor healing and detect any early signs of recurrence.
- Gradual return to normal activities as guided by the surgical team.
- Prompt reporting of fever, increased pain, or return of symptoms is crucial.
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Typical hospital stay:
3-7 days
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Expected recovery time:
4-6 weeks for initial healing; 3-6 months for full recovery
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering rectovaginal fistula repair in Turkey, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Top-rated hospitals in Turkey with surgical gastroenterology departments and experienced surgeons are ideal for this procedure. Use MediFyr to compare facilities, reviews, and doctor profiles before you decide.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform rectovaginal fistula repair. MediFyr helps you compare surgical gastroenterologists 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 repair compare across other countries where we have data.
James Bhatia, a 58-year-old retired school...
James Bhatia, a 58-year-old retired school principal, had been living with a secret for two years. A history of diverticulitis led to a complicated abscess that was drained, but it left him with a persistent rectovaginal fistula. As a transgender man who had not undergone lower surgery, this created a devastating and deeply private complication. He experienced constant fecal leakage and discharge through his vaginal canal, leading to severe skin irritation, recurrent infections, and a profound sense of bodily betrayal. The smell and fear of accidents made him a prisoner in his own home, severing social ties and plunging him into depression. His gastroenterologist, after confirming the fistula with imaging, referred him to a surgical gastroenterologist specializing in such repairs. The doctor was notably respectful, using James's correct name and pronouns, and explained the laparoscopic repair procedure with great sensitivity. The surgery itself went smoothly. The post-operative recovery in the hospital was challenging due to pain and dietary restrictions, but the nursing staff was supportive. After six weeks of a strict liquid/soft diet and meticulous wound care, the leakage completely stopped. Emotionally, the journey was from shame and isolation to immense relief and reclaiming of his body. While the experience was traumatic, the successful repair allowed James to finally feel whole and secure again, enabling him to re-engage with the world.