RECTOVAGINAL FISTULAS

Rectovaginal fistulas (RVF) are abnormal, epithelium-lined communications between the rectum and vagina, accounting for approximately 5% of anorectal fistulas.31 Although uncommon, they cause considerable distress to the patient because the symptoms are socially disabling. Difficulties in treatment and oft-repeated failures challenge the patient's perseverance and the surgeon's skill. The following discussion on the etiology, evaluation, and classification of RVF will help to facilitate decision making in the management of this disease.