Complicated Diverticulitis and Pelvic Radiation Leading to Colonic Stricture, Colorectal Fistula, and Anal Stenosis

Am Surg. 2023 Sep;89(9):3891-3892. doi: 10.1177/00031348231175128. Epub 2023 May 10.

Abstract

The purpose of this case is to highlight a rare case of sigmoid colon-to-rectum fistula. A 66-year-old man with a history of pelvic radiation and diverticulosis presented to the emergency department with a 3-week history of abdominal pain and watery diarrhea. Computed tomography (CT) imaging was significant for a sigmoid-to-rectum fistula with sigmoid stricture. The patient underwent a laparoscopic colectomy with end colostomy. Pathology revealed perforated diverticulitis. To date, there have been no cases reported in literature describing sigmoid-to-rectum fistula. In conclusion, it is important to consider the development of complex diverticular disease in patients with history of pelvic radiation.

Keywords: acute care surgery; colorectal; diverticular disease; fistula; pelvic radiation.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Colorectal Neoplasms* / surgery
  • Constriction, Pathologic / complications
  • Constriction, Pathologic / surgery
  • Diverticulitis* / surgery
  • Diverticulitis, Colonic* / complications
  • Diverticulitis, Colonic* / surgery
  • Fistula* / surgery
  • Humans
  • Intestinal Obstruction* / diagnostic imaging
  • Intestinal Obstruction* / etiology
  • Intestinal Obstruction* / surgery
  • Laparoscopy* / adverse effects
  • Male