Risks of rigid dilation for a radiated vaginal cuff: two related rectovaginal fistulas

Obstet Gynecol. 2003 May;101(5 Pt 2):1125-6. doi: 10.1016/s0029-7844(02)02624-8.

Abstract

Background: Dyspareunia secondary to significant radiation fibrosis of the vagina is a difficult clinical problem. The benefit of vaginal dilator therapy in such patients is unclear.

Case: We report two patients who had attempted dilation and elongation of a small, fibrotic, heavily radiated vagina and subsequently developed a rectovaginal fistula.

Conclusion: Use of a rigid dilator in an attempt to lengthen a heavily radiated vaginal cuff may be hazardous.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Dilatation / adverse effects*
  • Dilatation / instrumentation
  • Dyspareunia / etiology
  • Dyspareunia / therapy*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Radiation Injuries / complications
  • Rectovaginal Fistula / etiology*
  • Risk
  • Vagina / pathology
  • Vagina / radiation effects*