Rectovaginal injury in a young child. A case report.
BACKGROUND
Rectovaginal injuries in children, often the result of trauma, present as emergencies. Associated injuries may include ruptured urethra, bladder, vaginal vault or hollow viscus.


METHODS
A child younger than 2 years of age sustained a traumatic injury. Thorough examination required the use of skeletal radiography; computed tomography of the head, chest, abdomen and pelvis; and voiding cystourethrogram. Injury was limited to a fourth-degree perineal laceration. The wound was debrided and primarily closed in layered fashion. A diverting colostomy was performed to aid wound healing. Six weeks later, after wound resolution, colonic anastomosis was performed.


CONCLUSIONS
Rectovaginal laceration in a child under the age of 13 requires thorough evaluation to identify the extent of traumatic injury. A diverting colostomy enhances wound healing.
Platt
Julie S
JS
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, USA. mdpjsp@earthlink.net
Lynch
Catherine M
CM
D002650:Child Abuse, Sexual; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D004638:Emergency Treatment; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D022125:Lacerations / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery; D011859:Radiography; D012007:Rectum / Q000293:injuries*; D014621:Vagina / Q000293:injuries*