Rectovaginal fistula (RVF) is a debilitating condition characterized by an abnormal connection between the rectum and vagina, leading to severe discomfort, infections, and impaired quality of life. RVF repair outcomes are known to be influenced by multiple patient-specific factors, but the precise impact of these factors remains underexplored. This comprehensive literature review analyzes the influence of variables such as patient age, body mass index (BMI), fistula size, malignancy history, infection, radiation therapy, trauma, and foreign bodies on the success of RVF repair. Findings indicate that larger fistulas, malignancy history, and prior radiation therapy are associated with significantly lower repair success rates. In contrast, smaller fistulas and patients without these complications generally experience better outcomes. These results highlight the importance of individualized treatment planning and suggest that identifying these risk factors can help clinicians optimize surgical approaches, reduce recurrence, and improve quality of life for RVF patients. This review underscores the need for further research to validate these findings in larger, diverse populations, which could contribute to refining RVF management strategies.

rectovaginal fistula

repair

factors