A fistula flap technique for correction of type II atresia ani and rectovaginal fistula in 6 kittens.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To report a surgical technique and long-term outcomes of type II atresia ani (AA) and rectovaginal fistula (RvF) correction, using a fistula flap technique in kittens. STUDY DESIGN: Clinical study. ANIMALS: Domestic shorthaired female kittens (n = 6) with type II AA-RvF. METHODS: Diagnosis of type II AA-RvF was made by clinical examination and vaginography. The anomaly was surgically corrected by a fistula flap technique for reconstruction of the anal canal and anus, and by vaginoplasty. Kittens were monitored for short and long-term complications. RESULTS: All 6 kittens were fecal and urinary continent in the immediate postoperative period. Postoperative complications occurred in 2 kittens: partial dehiscence between the anal and vaginal opening and a stenosis at the level of the rectal mucocutaneous anastomosis. Dehiscence healed by second intention and stenosis was treated by anoplasty. No long-term complications (median follow-up, 12 months; range, 12-17 months) were observed. CONCLUSIONS: Reconstruction of the anal canal and anus using the fistula as a local flap in combination with a vaginoplasty can be effective to treat feline type II AA and RvFs.