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Rectovaginal injury in a young child. A case report

Julie S Platt1, Catherine M Lynch

  • 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, USA. mdpjsp@earthlink.net

Insights

Severe rectovaginal injuries in children are medical emergencies requiring prompt evaluation. A diverting colostomy can significantly aid healing for these traumatic perineal lacerations.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Trauma Management
  • Emergency Medicine

Background:

  • Rectovaginal injuries in children are uncommon but serious emergencies.
  • These injuries often result from trauma and can involve associated damage to the urethra, bladder, vaginal vault, or hollow viscera.

Observation:

  • A case study involving a child under 2 years old with a traumatic injury is presented.
  • Diagnostic workup included skeletal radiography, CT scans of the head, chest, abdomen, and pelvis, and a voiding cystourethrogram.
  • The identified injury was a fourth-degree perineal laceration.

Findings:

  • The wound was surgically debrided and closed in layers.
  • A diverting colostomy was implemented to facilitate wound healing.
  • Subsequent colonic anastomosis was performed after six weeks, following wound resolution.

Implications:

  • Thorough evaluation is crucial for diagnosing the extent of traumatic rectovaginal injuries in pediatric patients.
  • The use of a diverting colostomy is an effective strategy to enhance wound healing in these cases.
Abstract

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