Anovaginal Fistula – A Life-Changing Recovery at VGM Gastro Centre
A 32-year-old woman experienced a distressing condition where she passed stool and gas through her vagina for two months, leading to significant emotional distress and withdrawal from social interactions. She was diagnosed with an anovaginal fistula, an abnormal connection between the anal canal and vagina, often resulting from trauma or injury. In her case, the condition was linked to a prior chemical cauterization treatment for hemorrhoids by a native practitioner.
At another hospital, she was advised to undergo a colostomy, a procedure involving the diversion of the colon to an external bag—a prospect she found daunting. Seeking alternatives, she approached VGM Gastro Centre. Our team opted for the LIFT (Ligation of Intersphincteric Fistula Tract) procedure combined with a vaginal flap closure and collagen sheet interposition. This minimally invasive approach successfully healed the fistula within a month, eliminating the need for a colostomy.
Thankfully, with precise diagnosis and advanced surgical techniques, complex conditions like anovaginal fistulas can be effectively treated, restoring patients' quality of life without resorting to more invasive procedures.
Here’s how we managed this Anovaginal Fistula case effectively:
- Comprehensive evaluation to confirm the fistula tract
- Utilization of the LIFT procedure to isolate and disconnect the fistula
- Application of vaginal flap closure with collagen sheet to promote healing
- Avoidance of colostomy, preserving normal bowel function
- Postoperative follow-up ensuring complete recovery without recurrence
Early diagnosis and tailored surgical interventions are crucial in managing anovaginal fistulas effectively. If you or someone you know is experiencing similar symptoms, consult our specialists at VGM Gastro Centre for expert care.