Single-stage repair of rectoperineal and rectovestibular fistulae can be safely delayed beyond the neonatal period.

PURPOSE: We sought to examine the short-term outcomes following single-stage repair of rectoperineal and rectovestibular fistulae in infants and identify risk factors for wound complication.

METHODS: Patients with a rectoperineal or rectovestibular fistula treated with a single-stage repair beyond the neonatal period (>30days of age) at a pediatric colorectal center (2011-2016) were reviewed.

RESULTS: 36 patients with a rectoperineal and 7 patients with a rectovestibular fistula were repaired using the Posterior Sagittal Anorectoplasty (PSARP) approach. Median follow-up was 31months. The median age and weight at the time of repair were 166days and 6.5kg. Four patients (11%) suffered a wound complication (3 rectoperineal, 1 rectovestibular). Two required a diverting colostomy to allow wound healing. Two patients suffered skin separation managed with local wound care. All 4 patients experienced satisfactory wound healing without anoplasty stricture. Two different patients developed a stricture of the neo-anus. Age and weight at time of repair, gender, and presence of a genitourinary anomaly were not associated with wound complications.

CONCLUSION: Delayed single-stage repair of rectoperineal and rectovestibular fistulae can be performed safely in infants beyond the newborn period. With attentive treatment, satisfactory healing can be anticipated if a wound complication is encountered.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Retrospective Comparative Study, Level III.