A Vaginal fistula that opens into the rectum is called.
A. Vesio-vaginal Fistula
B. Colo-vaginal Fistula
C. Recto-vaginal Fistula
D. Entero-vaginal Fistula
Explanation
A vaginal fistula that opens into the rectum is called a:
Recto-vaginal Fistula
✅ Explanation
A fistula is an abnormal connection between two organs.
When this connection occurs between the vagina and the rectum, it is called a recto-vaginal fistula (RVF).
Why is it called recto-vaginal fistula?
- Recto- → refers to the rectum (the last part of the large intestine)
- -vaginal → refers to the vagina
- Fistula → abnormal passage
So, a recto-vaginal fistula means a passage connecting the rectum and the vagina.
🔍 What happens in a recto-vaginal fistula?
Because of the opening between rectum and vagina:
- Stool or gas may pass through the vagina
- Recurrent vaginal infections may occur
- Foul-smelling discharge or fecal leakage may be present
- Severe emotional and social distress because of symptoms
🩺 Common causes
- Childbirth trauma (most common)
- Obstetric injuries (prolonged labor, forceps delivery)
- Crohn’s disease
- Surgery (pelvic or colorectal)
- Radiation therapy
- Infections
🩹 Treatment
Depends on size and cause:
- Small fistulas: may close with conservative management
- Larger ones: require surgical repair
Other Options Details
Here are the descriptions of each option clearly and simply:
A. Vesico-vaginal Fistula (VVF)
- This is an abnormal connection between the urinary bladder (vesico) and the vagina.
- Results in continuous leakage of urine through the vagina.
- Common causes: prolonged obstructed labor, pelvic surgeries, radiation therapy.
B. Colo-vaginal Fistula
- Abnormal tract between the colon (large intestine) and the vagina.
- Causes passage of gas or fecal material through the vagina.
- Often due to diverticulitis, colorectal surgery, or inflammatory bowel disease.
C. Recto-vaginal Fistula (RVF)
- A connection between the rectum and the vagina.
- Leads to fecal incontinence, passage of stool or gas through the vagina, and recurrent vaginal infections.
- Causes include childbirth trauma, Crohn’s disease, pelvic surgery, or radiation.
D. Entero-vaginal Fistula
- Abnormal connection between the small intestine (entero) and the vagina.
- Results in fecal discharge, foul-smelling fluid, or undigested food particles passing through the vagina.
- Usually due to surgery, radiation therapy, or severe inflammatory diseases.
I hope that you liked this article.
Thanks!! 🙏 😊
Writer: Vandita Singh, Lucknow (GS India Nursing Group