Rectoseminal vesicle fistula as a rare complication after low anterior resection: a report of three cases

• DOI: 10.1007/s00595-012-0347-x
• Publication Date: 2012-10-09T08:02:15Z
• Authors: Kentaro Nakajima; Masanori Sugito; Yuji Nishizawa; Masaaki Ito; Akihiko Kobayashi; Yusuke Nishizawa; Takanori Suzuki; Toshiyuki Tanaka; Toru Etsunaga; Norio Saito
• Keywords: Surgical oncology; Colorectal Surgery; Diverticulitis; Cystography

A rectoseminal vesicle fistula is a rare complication after a low anterior resection for rectal cancer, usually developing in the outpatient postoperative period with pneumaturia, fever, scrotal swelling or testicular pain. A diagnostic water-soluble contrast enema, cystography and computed tomography reveal a tract from the rectum to the seminal vesicle. Anastomotic leakage is thought to be partially responsible for the formation of such tracts. This report presents three cases of rectoseminal vesicle fistula, and the presumed course of the disease and optimal treatment options are discussed.