Laparoscopic surgery for diverticular colovesical fistula: single-center experience of 11 cases

Laparoscopic surgery for diverticular colovesical fistula (CVF) is technically challenging, and the incidence of conversion to open surgery (COS) is high. This study aimed to review our experience with laparoscopic surgery for diverticular CVF and identify preoperative risk factors for COS.

This was a single institution, retrospective, observational study of 11 patients (10 males and 1 female) who underwent laparoscopic sigmoid colon resection with fistula resection for diverticular CVF from 2014 to 2019. Preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed to evaluate the fistula location in the bladder, patency of the rectovesical pouch (i.e., the destination of dissection procedure between sigmoid colon and bladder) and estimate the contact area between the sigmoid colon and bladder. The relationship between preoperative variables and COS incidence was analyzed between completed laparoscopy and COS groups. The overall incidence of postoperative morbidity (Clavien-Dindo classification Grade II or higher) was 36% (4/11). Severe morbidity, reoperation, and mortality were not observed. The incidence of COS was 27% (3/11). Posterior bladder fistulas were significantly associated with COS. CVFs located on the posterior bladder appears to be a risk factor for COS. Identifying risk factors for COS preoperatively could help guide the intraoperative course.