Karampinas P K, Evangelopoulos D S, Benetos I S, Kavroudakis E, Vlamis J
Third Department of Orthopaedics, University of Athens Medical School, Athens, Greece.
Case Rep Emerg Med. 2011;2011:479209. doi: 10.1155/2011/479209. Epub 2011 Sep 8.
Purpose. The rectofemoral fistula represents a devastating complication of colorectal surgery. Its early diagnosis and treatment are critical to obtain a good patient outcome. Case Presentation. A 75-year-old Caucasian female patient presented with high fever, ileus, low back pain, sciatic nerve palsy, and infection of the right knee. After numerous surgical debridements and antibiotic therapies, a rectofemoral fistula was diagnosed. Conclusion. Increased doctors' alertness is mandatory for the early identification and surgical treatment of patients suffering from a rectofemoral fistula before the stage of diffuse infection has significantly decreases their postoperative morbidity and mortality.
