How is a bladder fistula from Crohn’s disease treated?

Question

Hi doctor,

My husband has Crohn's disease, and a bladder fistula has formed from it. His bowel is tunneling into the bladder.

What is the surgery done for this problem?
Does it require a bag, as it involves the bowel?
Can the bladder be sewn?
Will it cause damage to the bladder?
How long should a urinary catheter be placed after surgery?
How to check and when it needs to be checked to know whether the surgery is effective?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Enterovesical fistula formed due to Crohn's disease is treated therapeutically with the help of antibiotics, steroids, and cytostatics. Catheters are used for urinary drainage and parenteral feeding. This is the preferred way of treatment. Surgical treatment is preferred in cases of abscess, urine obstruction, compound fistula, cancer, and when the therapeutic treatment fails.

Intestine resection and bladder repair are performed without the help of a diverting intestinal transit or urinary bag. These manipulations are used in advanced cases. Catheterization of the bladder is followed for three to four weeks. So an accurate diagnosis and evaluation from a general surgeon are needed. A urologist is required to decide the method of treatment.

I hope this helps.

Kindly revert in case of further queries.

Thank you.