Rectovaginal fistula following double-stapling anastomosis in low anterior resection for rectal cancer

The rectovaginal fistula is a rare complication after low anterior resection for rectal cancer, but its management is difficult and the result is often unsatisfactory. Herewith, we report one patient with rectovaginal fistula as a postoperative complication. Rectovaginal fistula appeared on the 23rd day after low anterior resection. Flatus and feces through the vagina were present, but the fistula was too small to be elucidated by gastrografin enema. After 22 days of fasting therapy under total parenteral nutrition, this fistula was closed. The rectovaginal fistula is very rare but is a possible complication after low anterior resection for rectal cancer. Therefore, this complication must be kept in mind, and a minimal-sized fistula can be treated conservatively without a diverting colostomy or other surgical procedures.