Risk factor analysis on rectovaginal fistula after resection in rectal cancer

Abstract

Objective To investigate the risk factors on rectovaginal fistula after resection in rectal canc-er and clinical strategy. Methods Our retrospective study included 1123 patients of recter cancer who un-derwent anterior resection with TME technique. Results 3.03% patients(34/1123) developed reetovaginal fistula. Rectovaginal fistulas were raleted with menopausal, location tumor in rectal wall and distance between tumor and anal verge, anastomotic technique, while not with age, T stage, preoperative radiotherapy, diversion stoma construction. Among 34 patients 12 were cured conservatively, fistula repair and colon stoma were performed for the other patients. Conclusions Menopausal, location tumor in rectal wall, distance between tumor and anal verge, anastomotic technique were risk factors for rectovaginal fistula after resection in rectal cancer. Correct choice of surgical procedures, suitable operative timing, enough preoperative preparation are important. Key words: rectal cancer; rectovaginal fistula; risk factor