Surgical management of acquired rectourethral fistula, emphasizing the posterior approach

Rectourethral fistula is an uncommon surgical entity having a variety of congenital and acquired causes. Although several surgical approaches have been proposed in the literature, successful repair is often difficult. The 2 patients described had rectourethral fistulas after radical prostatectomy. One patient failed previous transabdominal and perineal repairs. The authors propose a 3-step approach to management of acquired rectourethral fistulas. A diverting transverse colostomy with insertion of a suprapubic or indwelling silicone rubber Foley catheter for 3 to 6 months will allow for a decrease in the inflammatory response surrounding the involved area and possible spontaneous closure. If spontaneous closure does not occur within this time, the fistula should be closed operatively through a posterior approach (modified York-Mason procedure). This approach provides excellent exposure and allows the suture lines to be offset, which in turn allows for better healing, present a minimal risk of impotence or incontinence and allows for complete separation of urinary and fecal streams. The third step involves closure of the colostomy followed by removal of the Foley or suprapubic catheter if there is no recurrence. Timing of this step is crucial and should be individualized according to the postoperative course.