Radiation-induced recto-urinary fistula: A dreaded complication with devastating consequences

Purpose

This study was undertaken to evaluate our 16-year experience with fistulas between the rectum and urethra or urinary bladder, collectively called recto-urinary fistulas (RUFs), and their devastating consequences in patients treated with radiation for prostate cancer.

Methods

We downloaded the records of all patients with radiation-related RUFS from 2004 to 2020 at our institution using the electronic medical record system. Details concerning patient demographics, clinical presentation, diagnostic approaches and surgical management were obtained and assessed.

Results

We identified a total of seven patients with radiation-induced RUFS: all were male and had an average age of 66 at diagnosis. Each had a history of prostate cancer that was treated with external, internal (i.e.brachytherapy), or combination radiation therapy. No fistulas were noted in patients treated with radiation for another malignancy. Radiation proctitis with rectal ulcer formation occurred in 6 of 7 patients. Common symptoms included fecaluria, pneumaturia, urine leakage via rectum, rectal pain and urinary tract infection. CT scanning was the most useful diagnostic tool. Once confirmed, fistula management included both urinary and fecal diversion in all patients. Only one patient received definitive repair of the fistula. Five others either died before repair could be attempted or had prohibitive co-morbid diseases. One patient declined repair.

Conclusions

Although rare, the development of a recto-urinary fistula is a dreaded complication. Our results indicate that radiation proctitis with rectal ulcer formation precedes fistula formation in most patients and must be aggressively managed. While fecal and urinary diversion can manage fistula symptoms in the majority of patients, definitive fistula repair is only possible in selected individuals.