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[Postoperative ureterocolonic fistula: a case report]
Augustin Punga-Maole1, Bahati Alphonse Mbongo, Aundu Antoine Molua
1Service d'Urologie, Cliniques Universitaires de Kinshasa, République Démocratique du Congo. pungamaole@yahoo.com
Summary
Postoperative ureterocolonic fistula is a rare complication, with only two cases reported in over three decades. This study details a unique case following hysterectomy in a patient with a single kidney, highlighting diagnostic challenges.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Complications
Background:
- Postoperative ureterocolonic fistula is an exceptionally rare complication.
- The incidence of ureterocolonic fistula is extremely low, with limited published cases over several decades.
Observation:
- A 38-year-old woman with a solitary right kidney developed a ureterocolonic fistula after a right hysterectomy.
- The patient presented with anuria, fever, and characteristic urine-smelling diarrhea.
- Diagnostic challenges were encountered due to inadequate urological imaging equipment.
Findings:
- Diagnosis was suspected based on specific diarrhea characteristics, ultrasound findings of ureterohydronephrosis, and normal cystography.
- Surgical exploration confirmed a ureterosigmoid fistula.
- This represents the 20th reported case of ureterocolonic fistula, with only two being postoperative.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering rare diagnoses in complex postoperative scenarios.
- Highlights the diagnostic utility of clinical presentation and basic imaging in resource-limited settings.
- Contributes to the scarce literature on postoperative ureterocolonic fistulas, aiding future clinical recognition and management.