Fistula: diagnosis and treatment
Fri, April 01, 2011 4:46 PM
I'm 22 and I have just been diagnosed with a rectovaginal fistula and an abcess that could possibly turn into another fistula. I've been talking with my GI and and a colorectal surgeon and they are planing an exploritory procedure to get a better look and I am really scared. Will I need surgeory? What are my options? Anyone have some advice?
meginmoJoined Apr 1, 2011
Mon, May 02, 2011 6:23 PM
Reply posted for meginMO.
Hi, I was diagnosed with a rectal fistula last year! It has been a really tough year. I have been through 2 surgeries for the fistula alone and I am going to have to do another one in July. They have to explore the fistula to see if they can cut the area. They are unable to cut the area around mine so they have tried a fistula plug. This did not work and I guess there is only a 50% chance of it working. The second surgery was to put a septia (I think that is how you spell it). I hate it. It keeps the fistula open so it doesn't become infected (it works) but it leaks all the time. I have to wear pads all the time and go the bathroom more because I have change them constantly. Blahh! The next surgery I am having done is a new one they are supposed to go in and sew it up from the inside. Having the fistula really sucks. I started Remicaide about 5 months ago and it helps a little. I am also on 6mp and Lialda. The combination seems to be helping a little bit. Good luck to you!
Joined May 2, 2011
Fri, April 22, 2011 2:14 PM
Reply posted for meginMO.
I have had a rectovaginal fistula for about 6 years and they have opted not to do surgery. They say it would do more harm. I have been in remission for several years, but the fistula is still there. I was married four years ago and I am able to be sexually active, I just have to be careful. There are ways to manage with a rectovaginal fistula. Just consider all options before deciding what to do. I was afraid too, but you will get through this and once in remission you won't hardly notice you have it. Remicade worked wonders for me. It never helped with the fistula, but the pain was gone, my life was back to normal and I was able to meet someone and marry. Hope this helps.
Joined Apr 22, 2011
Fri, April 22, 2011 1:31 PM
Reply posted for meginMO.
I had a lot of really good luck with Remiaide for about 4 years. Now I am on Tysabri and that has been doing ok too.
Joined Apr 29, 2008
Tue, April 19, 2011 12:00 AM
Reply posted for meginMO.
Ask your doctor about a drug called Flagyl. It really helps for fistulas.
Joined Jun 11, 2008
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