vaginal mucosal pedicle flap technique for repair of rectovaginal fistula in mares

Objective— To describe the use of a vaginal mucosal pedicle flap for repair of rectovaginal fistulae (RVF) in mares. Study Design— Clinical case report. Animals— Three mares with RVF. Methods— After debriding the RVF, a dorsally based U‐shaped mucosal and submucosal pedicle flap (2–4 mm thick) was dissected from the vaginal wall, rotated approximately 90° angle to close the ventral aspect of the fistula and sutured in position with 10–13 single sutures that did not penetrate the rectal mucosa. This positioned the vaginal mucosa so that it was continuous with the rectal mucosa. Results— Two RVF healed by 1st intention whereas for the 3rd RVF, 2 additional single sutures were required to repair partial dehiscence after 10 days. At 6 weeks and 6 months all RVF were healed. One mare subsequently foaled without complications. Conclusions— RVF can be closed by use of a rotation flap of vaginal tissue. Clinical Relevance— Tension‐free closure of RVF can be achieved by rotating a pedicle flap of vaginal mucosal tissue without undue wound tension, and should be considered as an alternative to conventional appositional techniques.