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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.
Background:
Rectovaginal injuries in children, often the result of trauma, present as emergencies. Associated injuries may include ruptured urethra, bladder, vaginal vault or hollow viscus.
Case:
A child younger than 2 years of age sustained a traumatic injury. Thorough examination required the use of skeletal radiography; computed tomography of the head, chest, abdomen and pelvis; and voiding cystourethrogram. Injury was limited to a fourth-degree perineal laceration. The wound was debrided and primarily closed in layered fashion. A diverting colostomy was performed to aid wound healing. Six weeks later, after wound resolution, colonic anastomosis was performed.
Conclusion:
Rectovaginal laceration in a child under the age of 13 requires thorough evaluation to identify the extent of traumatic injury. A diverting colostomy enhances wound healing.
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