IPEG 2020 TOP ABSTRACT: Utilizing laparoscopy in rectovaginal fistula repair

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Timothy F Tirrell, MD, PhD timothy.tirrell@childrens.harvard.edu Timothy F Tirrell, MD, PhD; Prathima Nandivada, MD; Alex G Cuenca, MD, PhD; Farokh R Demehri, MD; Erin R McNamara, MD, MPH; Jill M Zalieckas, MD, MPH; Belinda H Dickie, MD, PhD; Boston Children's Hospital Congenital rectovaginal fistula is a rare type of anorectal malformation. Laparoscopy has been used in rectal mobilization for other anorectal malformations but its use in repair of rectovaginal fistulas is not broadly reported. We have utilized laparoscopy in repair of several rectovaginal fistulas and present a case highlighting its advantages. Rectal mobilization and division of the common rectovaginal wall were performed laparoscopically. The motility gained by laparoscopic dissection of abdominal structures enabled a more limited perineal incision than usual, and sparing of the perineal body.

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