Case Discussion of Turnbull–Cutait Procedure for Complex Ano-vaginal Fistula: Revival of the Delayed Coloanal Pull-through Procedure and Its Application for the Modern Surgeon

Studies have shown anastomotic leak rates approaching 20 per cent for restorative proctectomies after radiation to the pelvis.9 The combination of pelvic radiation, previous pelvic surgery, a recurrent fistula, with an extremely distal pathology precluded the use of any stapling device. [...]the TCP served as a salvage procedure for our patient in avoiding a permanent stoma at a young age. Conclusion Delayed CAA described by Turnbull and Cutait for sphincter-salvage has withstood the test of time, and remains a safe procedure with acceptably low complication rates. [...]salvage TCP should be a part of every surgeon's armamentarium for complicated benign anorectal disease that would otherwise necessitate the creation of a permanent stoma.