Disorder - Rectovaginal fistula

Organ Systems Involved
Gastrointestinal

Alternative disorders described within LIDA

Atresia ani

Presenting Signs

Rectovaginal fistula is usually associated with atresia ani (a condition where the anus does not have a proper opening). The symptoms are a distended abdomen, straining to defecate and bulging of the perineal region between the anus and the genitals. With rectovaginal fistula faeces may be passed from the vagina.

Cats at Risk

Female kittens that are born with atresia ani

Breeds Affected
Manx


Treatment

Surgical: two procedures are performed. The first is location and excision of the hole from the vagina to the rectum with reconstruction of the rectovaginal shelf. The second is to re-establish a new opening for the intestinal tract in animals that also have atresia ani.

PubMed References
Rectovaginal fistula

Contributor
Vivien Lance