Reconstructive operations for enteric and colonic fistulas: Low mortality and recurrence in a single-surgeon series...

The aim of the study was to evaluate the outcomes of 100 consecutive patients undergoing reconstructive operation for enteric and colonic fistulas. These fistulas cause dramatic morbidity and profoundly diminish quality of life. Fistula takedown has been associated with high rates of recurrence.

Consecutive patients undergoing definitive fistula reconstruction by a single surgeon were reviewed retrospectively. Major adverse outcomes included bowel leak, fistula recurrence, death, total parenteral nutrition dependence, and incidence of new stomas.

Among the 100 patients, median follow-up was 2.7 years. A total of 11 patients had postoperative leaks that evolved to 5 fistula recurrences. Of these patients 3 underwent successful secondary or tertiary takedown. The 30-day mortality rate was 1%, and the combined postoperative and fistula-related mortality rate at follow-up was 3%. New postoperative total parenteral nutrition dependence occurred in 2 patients (2%), and 9 (9%) had placement of a new stoma. Leaks were more frequent for patients who had a history of open abdomen than for patients who did not.

With minimal patient selection and a methodic approach to evaluation and management, we achieved a 96% fistula-free survival rate. Few patients acquired new total parenteral nutrition dependence or a new stoma. These results compare favorably with outcomes published elsewhere.