Citation

Platt JS, Lynch CM. J. Reprod. Med. 2003; 48(11): 889-892.

Affiliation

Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, USA. mdpjsp@earthlink.net

Copyright

(Copyright © 2003, Science Printers and Publishers, Inc)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

14686022

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Rectovaginal injuries in children, often the result of trauma, present as emergencies. Associated injuries may include ruptured urethra, bladder, vaginal vault or hollow viscus. CASE: A child younger than 2 years of age sustained a traumatic injury. Thorough examination required the use of skeletal radiography; computed tomography of the head, chest, abdomen and pelvis; and voiding cystourethrogram. Injury was limited to a fourth-degree perineal laceration. The wound was debrided and primarily closed in layered fashion. A diverting colostomy was performed to aid wound healing. Six weeks later, after wound resolution, colonic anastomosis was performed. CONCLUSION: Rectovaginal laceration in a child under the age of 13 requires thorough evaluation to identify the extent of traumatic injury. A diverting colostomy enhances wound healing.

Language: en