motherissues2 Asked December 2015
I was just told by Mom's hospice nurse that she probably has a rectal fistula. Can anyone tell me what to expect?
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I found out today that my 96 yr old mom with a large rectal tumor has fecal material coming out of her urinary tract. This was discovered because the hospice nurse tried to re-insert mother's Foley catheter which keeps coming out. The hospice nurse believes this indicates that a fistula has developed between the rectum and the bladder. Has anyone else seen this and what might happen next? From what the nurse said, mom is not in any pain at this point (that she's verbalizing). Thanks for any insight you guys can provide.
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JessieBelle Dec 2015
I've heard of a fistula between the rectum and vagina. This is the first time I've heard of one with the bladder. It would seriously concern me if it was the bladder, because infection couldn't be controlled. At 96 and with a rectal tumor, I know that you are waiting. I wish I had some answer for you, but I don't think there is much you can do beyond what you are doing. It is good that she is not feeling pain.
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cwillie Dec 2015
I've done a little searching on this, it is called a colovesical fistula so that is where you need to look for info. It is possible to manage this by simply treating with antibiotics, steroids and other meds.
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motherissues2 Dec 2015
Yes, at this point I am just waiting. I kind of expected something like this to occur. My thought is also that infection will worsen (I know she already most certainly has a UTI because she's had a Foley catheter for over 8 months). Now that the catheter apparently cannot be re-inserted, due to growth of tumor or fecal impaction or maybe collapsed urethra wall, she may end up with complete bladder outlet obstruction. It's hard to say what will happen next. Thank you both for your comments. I appreciate your support.
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Countrymouse Dec 2015
It's just a guess, but aren't there 'supra pubic' catheters that can be used where a Foley's isn't feasible? I think my late father-in-law had one - your hospice nurse will be able to explain, but in any case I'm sure your poor mother won't be permitted to suffer unnecessarily. My best wishes to you.
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