Spontaneous colo-vesical and colo-cutaneous fistula complicating a sigmoid diverticulitis: A case report

Diverticular disease is a challenge in western countries. The occurrence of fistula complicating diverticulitis is uncommon. As a result, spontaneous and synchronous colo-vesical and colo-cutaneous is an even rarer situation.

We report the case of a 68 years old patient with medical history of bilateral inguinal hernia surgery and diverticular disease. He was admitted for fecal fistula through to the left inguinal area and recurrent urinary tract infections evolving for 2 months. Clinical examination revealed fecaluria and colo-cutaneous fistula. Abdominal CT scan revealed the presence of air in the bladder associated with fistula tract between the sigmoid colon and the inguinal abdominal wall. Surgical management was realized in two stages. The first stage, consisting to an end-colostomy, was performed. The second stage will be laparoscopic colectomy and is not yet realized. In the follow-up, the patient is doing well with a good quality of life.

Spontaneous colo-vesical and colo-cutaneous fistula is an uncommon complication of diverticulitis. There is no guidelines about the management and the treatment should be tailored according to each patient characteristics. Laparoscopic surgery is a feasible and safe approach in the treatment.