Genitourinary and Rectovaginal Fistula Repair

Genitourinary and rectovaginal fistulas are rare. Virginia Mason Franciscan Health is one of the few programs in the Puget Sound region with expertise in treating them. We have all the specialists you need for comprehensive care, including repair procedures that lead to the best possible outcomes.

We’re one of the only programs in the region using a multidisciplinary approach to diagnose and repair genitourinary and rectovaginal fistulas. Our trusted team collaborates to deliver the services that are best for your unique situation. Our team approach helps you receive timely, efficient treatment reflecting the latest science in fistula repair.

Highlights of our program include:

• Multidisciplinary approach: Urogynecologists, gastroenterologists, and colorectal surgeons work with additional specialists to plan and treat complex cases. Our extended team includes urologists, gynecologists, radiologists and gastroenterologists. Surgeons work side-by-side during repair procedures to ensure the highest levels of safety and quality. 

• Excellent outcomes: Our experience from treating a high volume of cases, including previous repairs that were not successful, gives you the best chances for good results. We maintain an excellent safety record performing procedures that restore organ function and minimize the risk of recurrence.

• Customized treatment plans: Fistulas we treat may affect any combination of pelvic organs, including the rectum, vagina, bladder or pelvic floor. We perform testing to pinpoint the precise location of affected organs and structures and plan your procedure. Explore diagnostic testing for pelvic floor disorders.
   
• Gentler care: Minimally invasive techniques enable us to perform procedures in less time and with less disruption to healthy tissue. Depending on the fistula type, your care may include a robot-assisted, laparoscopic or vaginal approach. You can expect a more comfortable recovery and quicker return to daily activities.

Fistulas are unnatural connections between two organs. Repair procedures close the connections and reconstruct nearby tissue to prevent complications and recurrence. The best care comes from programs like ours that regularly perform these procedures.

Our areas of expertise include: 

• Colovaginal or rectovaginal fistula repair: This procedure closes an unnatural connection between the colon or rectum and vagina.
• Perineal rectovaginal fistula repair: Surgeons close a connection between the rectum and vagina. This fistula type forms near the area between the vagina and anus (perineum).
• Ureterovaginal fistula repair: This procedure closes a connection between a ureter (tube that transports urine from the kidney to the bladder) and the vagina.
• Urethrovaginal fistula repair: Surgeons seal openings between the urethra (tube through which urine exits the body) and vagina. 
• Vesicovaginal fistula repair: This procedure closes connections between the bladder and vagina.

This procedure may be necessary if a fistula affects the connection between the ureter and bladder. Reimplantation restores urine flow by attaching the ureter to a healthy part of the bladder.

Our multidisciplinary team cares for patients across the Puget Sound area and beyond. Contact us to learn more or to schedule an appointment.