Traumatic urethrorectal fistulas associated with pelvic fractures: Diagnostic approaches and management strategies
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Urethrorectal fistulas associated with pelvic fractures represent rare but devastating injuries that create abnormal communications between the urinary and gastrointestinal tracts. These complex injuries typically affect young male trauma patients and require a staged, multidisciplinary approach to management. This review examines epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnostic workup, and management strategies for these injuries. Both conservative and surgical approaches are discussed, along with expected complications and long-term outcomes. While anatomical success rates are high with modern surgical techniques, functional outcomes remain challenging, with many patients experiencing erectile dysfunction and urinary incontinence. Current evidence suggests that a staged approach with initial diversion followed by delayed definitive repair optimizes outcomes for most patients. With comprehensive care, even patients with urethrorectal fistulas in pelvic fractures can achieve meaningful recovery.
Source: Formosan Journal of Surgery
Authors: Yueh-Wei Liu, Ting-Lung Lin, Ching-Hua Hsieh
Institutions: Chang Gung University, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital
Language: English
Subfield: Urology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4415908206