Colovaginal Fistula: An Uncommon Complication After Vaginal Hysterectomy and Pelvic Floor Repair With Mesh Surgery

Cureus. 2023 Dec 28;15(12):e51221. doi: 10.7759/cureus.51221. eCollection 2023 Dec.

Abstract

A colovaginal fistula (CVF) is an abnormal epithelialized connection between the colon and the vagina. It is a rare complication following gynaecology surgery and can significantly affect patients' quality of life. CVFs are commonly associated with diverticular disease and are usually seen in patients with a previous hysterectomy. We report an uncommon case of postsurgical CVF following vaginal hysterectomy with mesh-augmented pelvic floor repair, which was unrelated to diverticulitis. The patient was successfully managed by a multidisciplinary team with staged surgery.

Keywords: colovaginal fistula; complication; mesh; pelvic floor repair; vaginal hysterectomy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports