Radiographic, ultrasonographic and surgical treatment of rectovaginal fistula disease associated with atresia ani in ruminants

Recto-vaginal fistula (RVF) associated with atresia ani (AA) are congenital anomalies in which fecal and urinary output occurs through the vulvar region. In this study, 17 ruminants (lamb n=9, calf n=8) constituting type II AA-associated RVF cases were included. The cases were evaluated clinically, radiographically and ultrasonographically. Clinical findings included tenesmus, feces in the perivulval area, abdominal distension, partial perineal swelling and hematochezia. The abdomen and pelvis were evaluated by direct radiography and gaseous distension, dilated colon, moderate or severe megacolon were diagnosed. Using radiographic assessment of the distance between the rectum blind pouch and perineum, AA was typed and all cases were diagnosed as Type II AA. Ultrasonography was used to classify RVF and recto-lower fistula was diagnosed in all cases evaluated. All operations were performed by anoplasty using the rectal-pull through technique. No complications were encountered during the postoperative follow-up period. The aim of this study was to provide information about the diagnosis, treatment and use of radiography and ultrasonography in Type II AA with RVF in lambs and calves.