Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 17, 2026
Vessel-sparing Excision and Primary Anastomosis
Published on: January 7, 2019
Transanal endoscopic microsurgery for correction of rectourethral fistulae
D M Bochove-Overgaauw1, H P Beerlage, K Bosscha
1Department of Urology, Jeroen Bosch Ziekenhuis, 's-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands.
Background:
Rectourethral fistula is a rare complication of radical prostatectomy. Transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) is a minimally invasive technique available for its surgical correction, although currently, TEM is used more commonly for excision of adenomas and stage T(1) carcinomas of the rectum.
Patients And Methods:
We report two patients with rectourethral fistulae after laparoscopic radical prostatectomy in whom TEM was used for closure. The surgical procedure included microscopic full-thickness excision of the rectal wall around the fistula with a 1-cm margin and endoscopic suturing of the defect in the urethral and rectal walls.
Results:
In one case, the rectourethral fistula was closed using TEM. In the other patient, the procedure, performed after failure of a graciloplasty, was difficult because of extensive scar tissue, and the fistula persisted.
Conclusions:
The TEM procedure is a minimally invasive technique that may be considered for surgical repair of rectourethral fistulae.
Related Concept Videos
01:25Assessment of the Rectum and Anus
Rectal Inspection
Begin by inspecting the perianal and anal areas for color, texture, rashes,...
01:21Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management
Here are some common surgical interventions for IBD:
01:28Urologic Endoscopic Procedure: Cystoscopic Examination
01:26Endoscopic Procedures IV: Sigmoidoscopy and Laproscopy
Sigmoidoscopy
Sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses a flexible sigmoidoscope equipped with a light source and camera to examine the rectum and sigmoid colon. The procedure involves inserting the tube through the anus...