Fistula
At Montefiore Einstein Urology, you can access exceptional care for fistula. As a global leader in Urology, we are an academic-based, national and international referral site for the most complex and high-risk cases. For more than a century, we have been at the forefront of innovation, research, and clinical care for genitourinary (GU) conditions.
Ranked in the top one percent of all hospitals in the nation for Urology according to U.S. News & World Report, Montefiore Einstein continues to make advances in the diagnosis and treatment of GU conditions. Our multidisciplinary team of world-renowned specialists is passionate about uncovering the latest diagnostic approaches and treatments that can improve outcomes.
At Montefiore Einstein Urology, you can expect compassionate, personalized, research-based treatment plans that meet the highest standards for quality and safety. In addition, we offer patients a full range of support services, from nutritional guidance to rehabilitative therapies.
When you need fistula care, turn to our dedicated providers who will develop a highly personalized treatment plan specific to you.
What Is a Fistula?
A fistula is an abnormal connection between two body parts, e.g. an organ, blood vessel or other structure. They can occur between the vagina and surrounding urinary or digestive systems. They are often caused by damage to vaginal tissue from childbirth, surgery, injury, infection, radiation, chronic catheter use to name a few.
Fistulas can occur in various parts of the body.
- Rectovaginal fistula: between the rectum and vagina
- Vesicovaginal fistula: between the bladder and vagina
- Urethrovaginal fistula: between the urethra and the vagina
- Ureterovaginal fistula: between the ureter and vagina
- Colovesical or colovaginal fistula: between colon and bladder or vagina respectively
- Uterine or cervical fistula: the urinary and digestive systems can also be connected to the uterus / cervix
Causes of Fistulas
Common causes include:
- Prolonged labor during childbirth
- Vaginal tears during childbirth
- Abdominal or pelvic surgery
- Cancer
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Diverticulitis
- Pelvic inflammatory disease
- Radiation to pelvis
- Other trauma or injury
Signs & Symptoms of Fistula
Depending on the location symptoms may include:
- Urinary incontinence / leakage of pee
- Skin irritation
- Pain with sex
- Recurrent infections
- Foul smelling vaginal discharge
- Bleeding
Diagnosing Fistulas
To diagnose a fistula, your physician will obtain extensive medical history and perform a pelvic (vaginal) exam.
Our specialists use different imaging tests to diagnose or examine genitourinary fistulas. The type of test depends on the suspected location of the fistula and may include:
- Dye test
- Urine tests
- Computed tomography (CT) scans
- Fistulogram
- Cystoscopy
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- Ultrasound
- Flexible sigmoidoscopy
- Colonoscopy
- Retrograde pyelogram
Treating Fistulas
Treatment depends on the location and type but could include:
- Antibiotics
- Temporary catheterization
- Ureteral stents
- Surgery to close the fistula and/or divert the urinary or digestive tract