Dr. Vanni
Alex Vanni, MD

Professor of Urology | Lahey Hospital and Medical Center, Burlington, MA

Rectourethral Fistula

A rectourethral fistula is an abnormal tunnel connecting your rectum (lower large intestine) and urethra (tube carrying urine out). This causes stool or gas to pass into your urine, or urine to leak into your rectum, leading to infections and discomfort. It often results from surgery, radiation, or trauma, and typically requires surgery to repair. Seeking medical attention is important for diagnosis and care.

Please review the videos and resources below at your own pace.

Recommended Videos

Rectourethral Fistula Evaluation and Management

This video describes the nature of a rectourethral fistula and how it is repaired.

Urinary Catheter Home Care Teaching

Understand how to properly care for your urinary catheter at home. Learn about equipment, hygiene, managing drainage bags (leg/night), troubleshooting, and signs to contact a doctor.

Recommended Resources
Related Resources from Dr. Vanni
Meet Dr. Vanni

Professor of Urology | Lahey Hospital and Medical Center

Director: Center for Reconstructive Urologic Surgery

President: Trauma and Urologic Reconstructive Network of Surgeons (TURNS)

Society of Genitourinary Reconstructive Surgeons (GURS): Board of Directors

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I am a reconstructive urologist, dedicated to providing state of the art surgical care for my patients! Here's my philosophy: I want to make learning about your own health as easy as possible. I built out these pages to provide you with my favorite resources in an easy and organized format. That way, you'll be empowered, and together we can achieve success. Feel free to share it with your loved ones.
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