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Diseases of the Colon & Rectum
Published in: Diseases of the Colon & Rectum 11/2007

01-11-2007 | Original Contributions

Dartos Muscle Interposition Flap for the Treatment of Rectourethral Fistulas

Authors: Madhulika G. Varma, M.D., Jennifer Y. Wang, M.D., Julio Garcia-Aguilar, M.D., Ph.D., Andrew A. Shelton, M.D., Jack W. McAninch, M.D., Stanley M. Goldberg, M.D.

Published in: Diseases of the Colon & Rectum | Issue 11/2007

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Abstract

Purpose

Rectourethral fistula is a rare complication of pelvic surgery, trauma, or inflammation. The many techniques for repairing these fistulas vary in their success rates. Our goal was to describe the use of a dartos muscle interposition flap for repair of these fistulas.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review of eight patients who underwent repair of a rectourethral fistula with a dartos muscle interposition flap. We describe the success rate and patient-related factors that may have affected success. The technique of dartos muscle interposition is described and compared with other previously described techniques.

Results

Six of eight patients had healing of their fistulas documented by follow-up cystogram.

Conclusions

Dartos muscle interposition is a straightforward technique that can result in successful fistula repair but should not be used in patients with risk factors for poor wound healing, such as an immunocompromised state or previous radiation therapy.
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Metadata
Title
Dartos Muscle Interposition Flap for the Treatment of Rectourethral Fistulas
Authors
Madhulika G. Varma, M.D.
Jennifer Y. Wang, M.D.
Julio Garcia-Aguilar, M.D., Ph.D.
Andrew A. Shelton, M.D.
Jack W. McAninch, M.D.
Stanley M. Goldberg, M.D.
Publication date
01-11-2007
Publisher
Springer-Verlag
Published in
Diseases of the Colon & Rectum / Issue 11/2007
Print ISSN: 0012-3706
Electronic ISSN: 1530-0358
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10350-007-9032-3

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