Day theatre procedure
About this service
Excision of a pelvi-rectal fistula is a surgical procedure performed in Windhoek to remove an abnormal tunnel that has formed between the rectum and the surrounding pelvic tissue. This type of fistula can cause ongoing discharge, discomfort and recurring infection, and typically needs surgical removal rather than resolving on its own. Because the fistula tract can be complex, careful assessment beforehand helps plan the right surgical approach.
At Eastgate Clinic this procedure is carried out in our on-site day theatre, with consultation, referral and follow-up managed by your GP in our rooms. Your doctor will explain what the surgery involves for your specific case.
What to expect
- A detailed consultation and examination in our rooms before theatre is booked
- Imaging may be arranged first to map the tract, because a pelvi-rectal fistula often runs deeper than an ordinary anal fistula
- Under anaesthesia the fistula is excised and the deeper tissue is cleaned out
- Wound care and drainage management during the healing period, as guided by your doctor
- Follow-up appointments to check healing and reduce the chance of recurrence
Who is it for?
You may be advised to have this if you are dealing with:
- Persistent discharge or discomfort near the rectum or pelvis
- Recurring infections in the pelvic or rectal area
- A fistula diagnosed on examination or imaging
- Pain that worsens with sitting or bowel movements
- Referral from your GP for a complex fistula needing surgical review
Frequently asked questions
How is a pelvi-rectal fistula different from an anal fistula?
A pelvi-rectal fistula tracks higher, above the main sphincter muscles into the pelvic tissue, so it is deeper and less common. This is why imaging is often used before surgery to plan the excision.
What causes a pelvi-rectal fistula?
Most follow a deep abscess that has drained into the pelvic tissue. Inflammatory bowel disease, previous pelvic surgery or radiotherapy can also be involved, and your doctor will look for these when assessing you.
What is recovery like after pelvi-rectal fistula excision?
Expect several weeks of healing with some discharge, regular dressing changes and check-ups. Because the tract was deep, your surgeon may want to see you more often than after a simple fistula, and a second procedure is occasionally needed.
For referring doctors
This procedure can be booked in Eastgate Clinic's on-site day theatre in Windhoek, with anaesthetist and theatre staff provided. Contact us to arrange theatre time for your patient.
Day theatre information for doctorsReady to book your excision of pelvi-rectal fistula?
Choose a date and time online and we will confirm your appointment at Eastgate Clinic in Windhoek. Medical aid and private patients welcome.