Coloseminal vesicle fistula after low anterior resection: Report of a case and review of the literature

INTRODUCTION: A rectoseminal vesicle fistula after a low anterior resection for rectal cancer is a rare complication despite their anatomic proximity. From a Medline search from 1966 to date, a total of twenty-one previous cases of coloseminal vesicle fistula have been reported. From these cases, eleven were a complication of laparoscopic low anterior resection for rectal cancer. DESCRIPTION OF THE CASE: This report presents the case of a 63-year-old patient who was readmitted to the hospital on the fifteenth postoperative day after his surgical intervention for fever, abdominal pain, dysuria and pneumaturia. A sinography with water-soluble contrast revealed a tract between the rectum and the seminal vesicle. The condition was treated conservatively with antibiotics, urinary catheter and a transanastomotic Malecot probe for abscess drainage. The fistula had completely recovered on postoperative day 71 and the patient is still symptoms free, six months after the complication developed. DISCUSSION: This case reinforces the presumed link between anastomotic leakage and rectoseminal vesicle fistula in cases of low anterior resection while reviewing and summarizing similar previously reported cases on the course of the disease, diagnostic procedures and treatment options. CONCLUSION: Seminal vesicle are susceptible to fistula in oncological resection of rectum. Both CT scan with water-soluble contrast or sinography are effective diagnostic examinations. Depending on the characteristics of the fistula, conservative approach may be adequate and benefits much less morbidities than the surgical options.