Repair Of Rectourethral Fistula Research Articles

Transsphincteric Repair of Rectourethral Fistulas in Combination With Dartos Muscle Flap Interposition Following Radical Prostatectomy

OBJECTIVETo present our experience with a novel technique that combines the York–Mason transsphincteric approach with dartos muscle flap interposition to treat rectourethral fistulas. METHODSWe extracted records from our prospectively kept database of 35 procedures conducted for treating rectourethral fistulas during 2002–2023; the York–Mason approach was combined with dartos muscle flap interposition in five cases, performed for treating rectourethral fistulas due to radical prostatectomy, all of which were referral cases. RESULTSAll five patients were successfully treated and followed up for a median of 70.0 months without recurrence. Before the fistula repair, all had a diverting stoma. In all cases, the first voiding cystourethrogram revealed a healed fistula. The posterior and the scrotal incisions healed uneventfully. All patients reported normal voiding and no urinary incontinence. To date, the stoma has closed in three patients, all of whom had intact fecal continence and no postoperative anal stenosis. CONCLUSIONThe transsphincteric modified York–Mason approach combined with dartos muscle flap interposition resulted in complete healing of rectourethral fistulas.

Posterior Urethral Reconstruction at the Time of Rectourethral Fistula Repair: Technique and Outcomes

IntroductionRecto-urethral fistulas (RUF) remain a difficult management problem. To assess the impact of posterior urethral stenosis on outcomes following RUF repair, we present a cohort of 23 men who underwent posterior urethroplasty concurrent with RUF repair. MethodsWe identified 130 men who underwent RUF repair at our institution between 2003-2021. Of these, 23 (18%) underwent simultaneous posterior urethroplasty. Fifteen men received prior radiation for prostate cancer. Of the 8 men who were not radiated, 4 had a history of radical prostatectomy, 2 pelvic trauma, and 3 inflammatory bowel disease. All 23 men underwent fecal diversion prior to surgery (median, 6 months pre-operatively), and 20 men suprapubic catheter placement (median, 5.5 months pre-operatively). ResultsRUF repair was performed via perineal approach in 22 cases (96%) and prone Kraske position in 1 (4%). Intra-operatively, 20 men (87%) had urethral stenosis, and 3 (13%) had significant urethral defects due to cavitation and tissue loss. There was stenosis/stricture involving the prostatomembranous urethra in 18 cases (78%) and vesicourethral anastomosis in 5 (22%). Urethroplasty was performed with anastomotic repair in 18 patients (78%) and using a buccal mucosal graft in 5 (22%). Gracilis flap interposition was performed in 21 cases (91%).At a median follow up of 55.7 months (IQR, 23-82 months), 20 men (87%) had successful RUF closure, with 3 patients experiencing RUF recurrence requiring further surgery. Fourteen men (61%) reported postoperative urinary incontinence, with 7 (30%) ultimately undergoing artificial urinary sphincter placement. There were no isolated stricture recurrences requiring instrumentation. ConclusionsPosterior urethral stenosis associated with RUF complicates an already challenging problem. However, most of these patients can be successfully treated concurrent with RUF repair. This series demonstrates that patients with RUF should not be ruled out for restorative reconstructive surgery based on the presence of posterior urethral stenosis.

Recto-urethral fistula repair using gracilis muscle interposition: Complications, functional results and management of residual stress urinary incontinence

Recto-urethral fistula repair using gracilis muscle interposition: Complications, functional results and management of residual stress urinary incontinence

Laparoscopic repair of acquired rectourethral fistula by vesical peritoneal flap.

A rectourethral fistula (RUF) is an infrequent complication that can be iatrogenic in most cases. Multiple surgical interventions were described for RUF repair including transsphincteric, transanal, transperineal, and transabdominal approaches. To this day, there is no consensus on a standardized surgery of choice for acquired RUF. Our patient was diagnosed with RUF 4 weeks after undergoing laparoscopic low anterior resection for midrectum adenocarcinoma, with failure of conservative treatment. A three-port transabdominal approach was used to dissect the rectoprostatic space and close the fistula orifice on the anterior rectal wall. With the technical impossibility to develop an omental flap, the peritoneum on the posterior vesical wall was carefully dissected to form a rectangular flap pedicled by its inferior aspect. The harvested peritoneal flap was then anchored between the prostate and the rectum. Follow-up imaging showed the absence of RUF, concurrently with total remission of RUF symptomatology. Management of acquired RUF can be challenging, especially after failure of conservative treatment. Laparoscopic repair of acquired RUF by vesical peritoneal flap is a valid option for a minimally invasive approach for the treatment of RUF.

Posterior urethroplasty and recto-urethral fistula repair by bulbospongiosus muscle flap: A new surgical technique

Introduction: Recto-Urethral Fistula (RUF) is a relatively uncommon surgical condition requiring complex and precise surgery that is often challenging for surgeons.

PD35-05 POSTERIOR URETHRAL RECONSTRUCTION AT THE TIME OF RECTOURETHRAL FISTULA REPAIR: TECHNIQUE AND OUTCOMES

You have accessJournal of UrologyCME1 Apr 2023PD35-05 POSTERIOR URETHRAL RECONSTRUCTION AT THE TIME OF RECTOURETHRAL FISTULA REPAIR: TECHNIQUE AND OUTCOMES Roger Khouri, Joao Pedro Emrich Accioly, Molly Dewitt-Foy, Hadley Wood, and Kenneth Angermeier Roger KhouriRoger Khouri More articles by this author , Joao Pedro Emrich AcciolyJoao Pedro Emrich Accioly More articles by this author , Molly Dewitt-FoyMolly Dewitt-Foy More articles by this author , Hadley WoodHadley Wood More articles by this author , and Kenneth AngermeierKenneth Angermeier More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000003333.05AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookLinked InTwitterEmail Abstract INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Recto-urethral fistulas (RUF) remain a difficult management problem in reconstructive urology. The presence of posterior urethral stenosis or obliteration in association with RUF further complicates the situation and may have an impact on deciding whether the patient is a candidate for restorative reconstruction. To assess the impact of posterior urethral stenosis on outcomes following RUF repair, we present a cohort of 23 men who underwent posterior urethroplasty as part of their treatment. METHODS: We identified 130 men who underwent RUF repair at our institution between 2003-2021. Of these, 23 (18%) also underwent simultaneous posterior urethroplasty and were selected for in depth review. RESULTS: 15 men received prior radiation for prostate cancer: 6 EBRT and brachytherapy, 8 brachytherapy alone, and 1 EBRT alone. Of the 8 men who were not radiated, 4 underwent radical prostatectomy, 2 developed RUF following traumatic injuries, and 2 developed RUF in the setting of inflammatory bowel disease. 3 men (13%) underwent attempted RUF repair prior to referral. Initial management included fecal diversion in all 23 cases (mean 10.3 months prior to RUF repair) and suprapubic catheter placement in 20 (87%) at a mean of 6.4 months prior to surgery. RUF repair was performed via perineal approach in 22 cases (96%) and prone Kraske position in 1 (4%). At the time of surgery, 20 men (87%) had significant posterior urethral stenosis, and 3 (13%) had posterior urethral defects due to cavitation and tissue loss associated with RUF. Posterior urethroplasty involved the prostatomembranous urethra in 18 cases (79%), and vesicourethral anastomosis in 5 (22%). Urethroplasty was performed with anastomotic repair in 18 patients (79%) and using buccal mucosal graft in 5 (22%). Gracilis interposition was performed in 21 cases (91%). At a median follow up of 55.7 months (IQR, 23-82 months), 87% had successful RUF closure, with 3 patients experiencing RUF recurrence requiring further surgery. 14 men (61%) developed urinary incontinence, with 7 (30%) ultimately undergoing AUS placement. There were no isolated stricture recurrences requiring instrumentation. CONCLUSIONS: Posterior urethral stenosis or obliteration associated with RUF complicates a challenging problem. However, most of these patients can be successfully treated concurrent with RUF repair. This series demonstrates that patients with RUF should not be ruled out for restorative reconstructive surgery based on the presence of posterior urethral stenosis. Source of Funding: None © 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 209Issue Supplement 4April 2023Page: e976 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Roger Khouri More articles by this author Joao Pedro Emrich Accioly More articles by this author Molly Dewitt-Foy More articles by this author Hadley Wood More articles by this author Kenneth Angermeier More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement PDF downloadLoading ...

Minimally Invasive Management of Rectourethral Fistulae

ObjectiveTo report our experience and outcomes in minimally invasive management of rectourethral fistula (RUF). MethodsFrom 2004 to 2021, 15 patients who underwent minimally invasive RUF repair by a single surgeon at 2 international institutions were retrospectively reviewed. Baseline demographic characteristics, perioperative, and postoperative data were collected. Complications were reported using the modified Clavien-Dindo Classification System and the European Association of Urology Complication Panel Assesment and Recommendations. Success was defined as complete resolution of fistula-related symptoms at 12-month follow-up along with confirmation of fistula closure by imaging or cystoscopy. Categorical variables were presented as frequencies and percentages whereas continuous variables were reported as median and quartiles. ResultsFifteen male patients with a median age of 71 (64-79.2) years were treated. Four cases (26.6%) occurred postsurgery, 8 cases (53.3%) occurred after energy treatments, and 3 cases (20%) after surgery combined with an energy treatment modality. A robotic and laparoscopic approach was performed in 9 (60%) and 6 (40%) patients, respectively. No intraoperative complications were reported. Median operative time was 264 (217.5-341) minutes, estimated blood loss was 175 (137.5-200) mL, and the length of hospital stay was 4 days. Nine postoperative complications were reported. All patients were followed-up for 12 months with no recurrence reported. All patients reached our criteria for successful RUF repair. ConclusionsMinimally invasive surgery could represent an efficient way to manage RUF in selected patients. More studies and treatment standardization are needed to assess the role of minimally invasive surgery in the management of RUF.

Robotic-assisted laparoscopic repair of a congenital rectourethral fistula with duplicated urethra

To describe our experience with robot-assisted laparoscopic transperitoneal repair of a congenital rectourethral fistula in a pediatric patient with a urethral duplication. The patient is a 2-year-old male with a past medical history of Tetralogy of Fallot presenting with a febrile urinary tract infection (UTI). He was diagnosed with urethral duplication and a rectourethral fistula by voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG). The parents were counseled on various options and agreed to proceed with a robotic repair. Robotic-assisted transperitoneal rectourethral fistula repair was performed. The procedure time was 229min with an estimated blood loss (EBL) of 15mL. His postoperative course was unremarkable. At his 2-week follow-up, the urethral catheter was removed and the patient was voiding normally and having normal bowel movements. Congenital rectourethral fistula with urethral duplication is a rare anomaly with only a few reports in the literature. Pediatric robotic-assisted transperitoneal rectourethral fistula repair is a technically feasible approach in infants with minimal morbidity that allows for excellent visualization and avoids open repair.

Preventing Rectourethral Fistula Recurrence With Gracilis Flap.

Rectourethral fistula (RUF) is an uncommon serious condition with various etiologies including neoplasm, radiation therapy, and surgery. Treatment for RUF remains problematic with a high recurrence rate. Although studies have suggested the recurrence rate of RUF is lower after surgical repair using a gracilis flap, outcomes have varied and the studies were small and inadequately controlled. Here, we compare outcomes of RUF repair with and without gracilis flap to evaluate its efficacy in preventing fistula recurrence and identify risk factors for recurrence. We retrospectively reviewed patients who had undergone surgical repair for RUF between 2007 and 2018 at our institution and had at least 30 days of follow-up. Patient demographics, comorbidities, and surgical outcomes were recorded and compared for patients who had gracilis flap repair and those who did not (controls). Single variable logistic regression analysis was used to identify risk factors for recurrence. The gracilis group (n = 24) and control group (n = 12) had similar demographics and comorbidities. Fistula recurrence was far less frequent in the gracilis group (8% vs 50%, P = 0.009). There were no significant differences in other outcomes including length of hospitalization and surgical complications. When recurrent RUF was treated with a muscle flap (gracilis or inferior gluteus), 83% of the group had no additional fistula recurrence. In the control group, history of radiation ( P = 0.04) and urinary incontinence ( P = 0.015) were associated with fistula recurrence. We recommend using a gracilis flap for RUF repair given its association with lower recurrence without increased surgical complications.

Post-traumatic rectourethral fistula in an adolescent managed via a transperineal approach using a local gluteal tissue interposition flap: a case report

BackgroundRectourethral fistula is a rare disease with a wide variety of etiologies and clinical presentations. A definitive surgical procedure for rectourethral fistula repair has not been established.Case presentationA 13-year-old boy sustained a penetrating injury to the perineum, and developed a symptomatic rectourethral fistula thereafter. Conservative management through urinary diversion and transanal repair was unsuccessful. Fecal diversion with loop colostomy was performed, and three months later, a fistula repair was performed via a transperineal approach with interposition of a local gluteal tissue flap. There were no postoperative complications, and magnetic resonance imaging studies confirmed the successful closure of the fistula. The urinary and fecal diversions were reverted 1 and 6 months after the fistula repair, respectively, and postoperative excretory system complications did not occur.ConclusionsThe transperineal approach with interposition of a local gluteal tissue flap provides a viable surgical option for adolescent patients with rectourethral fistulas who are unresponsive to conservative management.

Hypoalbuminemia Is Associated with Increased 30-Day Complications following Rectourethral Fistula Repair: A National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Study.

We sought to assess patient risk factors for 30-day postoperative complications among men undergoing surgical management of rectourethral fistula (RUF). The American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database was queried for all male patients who underwent RUF repair (2006-2018). Hypoalbuminemia was defined as preoperative serum albumin <3.5 gm/dL. Postoperative 30-day complications included wound infection, organ space surgical site infection, urinary tract infection, sepsis, venous thromboembolism, pneumonia, cerebrovascular accident, myocardial infarction, return to operating room and mortality. The association between pre-selected patient covariates and postoperative complications was investigated using logistic regression analysis. A total of 250 patients were identified. Concurrent procedures during RUF repair were bowel diversion in 43/250 patients (17.2%), bowel resection (34/250, 13.6%), cystectomy (20/250, 8.0%) and urethroplasty (37/250, 14.8%). Overall, median age was 66.0 years (IQR 59.0-72.0), body mass index 26.6 kg/m2 (IQR 23.7-29.5) and 247/250 patients (98.8%) were functionally independent. Comorbidities included hypertension (140/250, 56.0%), smoking (55/250, 22.0%), diabetes (17/250, 6.8%), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (11/250, 4.4%) and congestive heart failure (1/250, 0.4%). Hypoalbuminemia (<3.5 gm/dL) was present in 25/126 patients (19.8%). Overall, 51/250 patients (20.4%) experienced a complication within 30 days of surgery including wound infection (14/250, 5.6%), sepsis (13/250, 5.2%), organ space infection (11/250, 4.4%), urinary tract infection (8/250, 3.2%), venous thromboembolism (8/250, 3.2%) and mortality (5/250, 2.0%). After adjusting for covariates, hypoalbuminemia was associated with increased odds of a 30-day complication (OR 2.49, 95% CI 1.06-5.86, p=0.036). Hypoalbuminemia was associated with increased odds of short-term complications after surgical management of RUF.

Rectourethral Fistula Induced by Localised Prostate Cancer Treatment: Surgical and Functional Outcomes of Transperineal Repair with Gracilis Muscle Flap Interposition

BackgroundTransperineal repair of rectourethral fistula (RUF) following prostate cancer treatment with gracilis muscle flap interposition (GMFI) leads to favourable outcomes, but published data are still lacking, notably concerning functional aspects. ObjectiveTo assess surgical and functional outcomes of this treatment of RUF. Design, setting, and participantsA retrospective study was conducted in two referral hospitals including 21 patients who underwent RUF transperineal repair with GMFI between 2008 and 2020. Surgical procedureThe standard vertical perineal approach is performed for fistula dissection. Bladder and rectal defects are closed separately. After dissection from its facia, the flap is harvested, preserving its pedicle; it is brought to the perineum and placed between the urethra and the rectum to fully cover the sutures. MeasurementsFistula closure (clinical data and postoperative cystography), digestive stoma closure, and complications graded according to the Clavien-Dindo classification were reviewed. Functional results were assessed using the Urinary Symptom Profile (USP) questionnaire, anal incontinence St Mark’s score, Patient Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS) score, and a nonvalidated Likert scale questionnaire assessing issues with lower extremity functionality. Results and limitationsThe median (interquartile range) follow-up was 27 (8–47) mo. Fistula closure was successful for 20 patients (95% success). Digestive stoma was closed in 10/12 shunted patients (83%). Two (9%) Clavien-Dindo grade ≥3b complications were reported (one urinoma in a kidney transplant patient and one thigh haematoma evacuation). Eighteen patients (86%) completed the postoperative questionnaire; 11/18 (61%) had significant urinary incontinence. The mean (standard deviation) USP dysuria score was 1/9 (1.2), mean St Mark’s score was 5/24 (5), mean POSAS score was 19/70 (11), mean lower extremity functionality score was 2/20 (4), and mean procedure patient satisfaction score was 9/10 (2). The retrospective design and limited number of patients are the main limitations. ConclusionsThe present study found an excellent success rate and low morbidity for RUF transperineal repair with GMFI. Functional outcomes were satisfactory despite a high urinary incontinence rate. Patient summaryWe performed an analysis of the outcomes of perineal approach surgery with muscle interposition for closing abnormal communication between the bladder and the rectum after prostate cancer treatment. This surgical technique was found to be safe to perform and provides a high success rate, with patients being satisfied despite poor urinary continence outcomes.

Adverse Features of Rectourethral Fistula Requiring Extirpative Surgery and Permanent Dual Diversion: Our Experience and Recommendations.

Introduction: To report a series of men with a rectourethral fistula (RUF) resulting from pelvic cancer treatments and explore their therapeutic differences and impact on the functional outcomes and quality of life highlighting the adverse features that should determine permanent urinary or dual diversion. Methods: A retrospective database search was performed in four centers to identify patients with RUF resulting from pelvic cancer treatment. Medical records were analyzed for the demographics, comorbidities, diagnostic evaluation, fistula characteristics, surgical approaches and outcomes. The endpoints analyzed included a successful fistula closure following a repair and the impact of the potential adverse features on outcomes. Results: Twenty-three patients, aged 57–79 years (median 68), underwent an RUF reconstruction. The median follow-up (FU) was 54 months (range 18–115). The patients were divided into two groups according to the etiology: radiation/energy-ablation treatments with or without surgery (G1, n = 10) and surgery only (G2, n = 13). All of the patients underwent a temporary diverting colostomy and suprapubic cystostomy. Overall, a successful RUF closure was achieved in 18 (78%) patients. An interposition flap was used in six (60%) patients and one (7.7%) patient in groups G1 and G2, respectively (p = 0.019). The RUF was managed successfully in all 13 patients in group G2 as opposed to 5/10 (50%) in group G1 (p = 0.008). The patients in the radiation/energy-ablation group were more likely to require permanent dual diversion (50% vs. 0%, p < 0.0075). Conclusion: Radiation/energy-ablation therapies are associated with a more severe RUF and more complex reconstructions. Most of these patients require an abdominoperineal approach and flap interposition. The failure of an RUF repair with the need for permanent dual diversion, eventually combined with extirpative surgery, is higher after previous radiation/energy-ablation treatment. Therefore, permanent dual diversion as the primary treatment should always be included in the decision-making process as reconstruction may be futile in specific settings.

Validating the Martini Staging System for Rectourethral Fistula: A Meta-Analysis of Postoperative Outcomes

ObjectiveTo validate the Martini staging system for postoperative rectourethral fistula (RUF) utilizing data from previous studies to determine whether it can accurately predict postoperative success rate. MethodsA systematic search of peer-reviewed studies was conducted through January, 2020. The primary inclusion criteria for the studies were studies that evaluated outcomes based on the etiology of the fistula (ie, radiotherapy/ablation [RA] vs nonradiotherapy/ablation [NRA]). Martini RUF classification was utilized for the subgroup analysis. ResultsOut of 1948 papers, 7 studies with a total of 490 patients (251 in RA vs 239 NRA) were included in this study. Receiving RA increased the risk of permanent bowel diversion by 11.1 folds, eventual fistula recurrence by 9.1 folds, and post-op urinary incontinence (UI) by 2.6 folds. Similarly, compared to a Grade 0 fistula, a Grade I fistula increased the risk of permanent bowel diversion by 9.1 folds, fistula recurrence by 20 folds, and post-op UI by 2.7 folds. There were some valuable variables that were not captured by the Martini classification. ConclusionOverall, the Martini classification system is efficacious in stratifying post-op complications from RUF repair based on the grade and etiology; however, it is limited in application. There is an opportunity for the development of more comprehensive staging systems in this domain.

Recurrent rectourethral fistula repair: A novel technique of gracilis muscle interposition

BackgroundA perineal approach with gracilis muscle interposition (GMI) remains the most common in recurrent rectourethral fistulas (RUFs). The closure failures in10%–20% cases and urinary incontinence in 10%–80% cases referred to the disadvantages of the perineal approach owing to neurovascular damage. This article shows that the retraction of a survived muscle gracilis flap is one of the causes of fistula recurrence, and a simpler technique of the flap interposition is presented, requiring a less invasive perineal access. MethodsThree consecutive patients with RUF at the age of 5, 13 and 15 years who underwent multiple (3, 4 and 5) unsuccessful reconstructive attempts were referred to our clinic. The last procedure was performed with GMI. In all cases, these were acquired iatrogenic fistulas that occurred after operations for Hirschsprung's disease (2) or anorectal malformation (1), and subsequent dilatation of the anus. All patients had a colostomy several years ago. Reinterposition and distant anchoring of the survived graсilis flap were performed through the perineal approach, avoiding lateral and anterolateral dissection. ResultsThe early postoperative period was uneventful. In one patient, a stricture of the posterior urethra formed. Urethrotomy was performed in 3 months, with complete restoration of micturition. The colostomy was closed in all patients after 3–4 months. In the long term follow up within 4–8 years, no fistula recurrence was noted. ConclusionsThe suggested traction technique of GMI allowed: to minimize the perineal access size, hence minimizing the injury and the operating time; to place the anchoring suture outside of the inflammation zone, ensuring secure attachment; to provide precise flap positioning and intimate contact between the flap and the urethra. Level of evidenceLevel V.

Rectourethral Fistula—Review of Current Practices, Developments, and Outcomes

Rectourethral fistula (RUF) is an uncommon pathology associated with a significant deterioration in quality of life. It can result from a variety of etiologies and frequently occurs in medically complex patients. Due to the involvement of both the urinary and fecal systems, there are a number of treatment considerations. The literature surrounding management of this condition is quite varied due to these factors. Recent literature on the field consists primarily of single institution case series, though there is a recently published multi-center cohort study with a relatively larger sample size. There is no clear surgical technique that appears to be superior. Transperineal repair is the most commonly described approach. In the properly selected patient, RUF repair results in success rates approaching 85–90%, though the definition of success is not standardized in the literature, and success rates are lower in patients post radiation or ablative therapy. This review highlights contemporary developments in the RUF literature, and provides an overview of important work-up and management considerations. Overall, there is no standardized protocol for management of RUF. Every case presents a unique challenge as a result of the RUF etiology, anatomical considerations, varying degrees of involvement of the genitourinary and gastrointestinal tracts, and patient comorbidities. Urologists must ultimately understand the disease process and utilize techniques that they feel most comfortable with.

Results of the York Mason Procedure with and without Concomitant Graciloplasty to Treat Iatrogenic Rectourethral Fistulas

BackgroundRectourethral fistulas (RUFs) are rare but devastating complications after surgery or radiation therapy to the urethra, prostate, or rectum. RUF repair is challenging, especially in irradiated patients. ObjectiveTo evaluate the efficacy of the York Mason (YM) procedure with or without concomitant gracilis muscle interposition (graciloplasty) for RUF repair. Design, setting, and participantsRecords of patients with an iatrogenic RUF who underwent the YM procedure between 2008 and 2018 in two university hospitals were reviewed. Data on etiology, diagnostic and operative procedures, urinary and fecal diversion, and postoperative follow-up were collected. InterventionTwenty-eight patients underwent 33 YM procedures. Concomitant graciloplasty was performed in four (14%) primary repairs and two (7%) repairs for recurrent RUFs. Outcome measurements and statistical analysisThe primary endpoint was successful RUF repair, defined as absence of symptoms and no leakage on control urethrocystography. The secondary endpoint was colostomy reversal rate. Results and limitationsMedian follow-up was 24 mo. Ten patients (36%) were irradiated previously. The ultimate success rate was 75% after a maximum of three YM procedures. Success rates were 89% and 50% in patients with nonirradiated and irradiated fistulas, respectively. In irradiated patients, the success rates of the first YM procedure with and without graciloplasty were 100% and 29%, respectively. In recurrent cases, concomitant graciloplasty did not result in better outcomes. Colostomy reversal was possible in 15 patients after successful repair. In all patients, fecal continence was intact and no anal stenosis was reported. Limitations of the study include small sample size and the retrospective design. ConclusionsCombination of the YM procedure with graciloplasty resulted in higher success rates of RUF repair in patients with irradiated fistulas. Fecal continence was preserved, and colostomy reversal is feasible. Patient summaryWe analyzed the outcomes, complications, and colostomy reversal rate of the York Mason procedure for the repair of rectourethral fistulas (RUFs). We found that concomitant graciloplasty increases success rates in case of prior radiation therapy. Colostomy reversal is feasible after RUF repair.

Re: Outcomes and Quality of Life among Men after Anal Sphincter-Sparing Transperineal Rectourethral Fistula Repair.

Re: Outcomes and Quality of Life among Men after Anal Sphincter-Sparing Transperineal Rectourethral Fistula Repair.

PT028 - Outcomes of recto-urethral fistula repair using a York-Mason procedure – return to full normal continuity of urinary and bowel function

PT028 - Outcomes of recto-urethral fistula repair using a York-Mason procedure – return to full normal continuity of urinary and bowel function

AUTHOR REPLY

We appreciate the opportunity to present our data supporting definitive repair of rectourethral fistula (RUF) and the positive subsequent impact on quality of life. At our high volume reconstruction center, a single urologist and colorectal surgeon have been managing RUF patients for the past decade in an effort to maximize surgical outcomes via a team approach for this rare diagnosis. We have been aggressive in advocating transperineal rectal sphincter-preserving RUF surgery unless there are precluding issues, such as bladder capacity and/or compliance problems that would impact postsurgical voiding health. Close follow up for all patients has been pursued regardless of their distance from our medical center with enlistment of the referring urologist, when necessary, for surveillance cystoscopy as a means to better understand surgical outcomes. To date, quality of life assessment has been limited to the postoperative period; however, we have begun using preoperative PROMs to further improve our ability to detect changes pre and/or post surgery.