TY - JOUR AU - Castro, Jorge Manuel AU - Ramalho Rocha, Filipa Isabel AU - Luna Pais, Helena AU - Galriça Neto, Isabel PY - 2021/12/30 Y2 - 2024/03/28 TI - An Approach to Rectovaginal Fistulae in Advanced Cancer: The Central Role of Palliative Care JF - Lusiadas Scientific Journal JA - Lusíadas Sci J VL - 2 IS - 4 SE - Review Articles DO - 10.48687/lsj.v2i4.76 UR - https://lusiadasscientificjournal.pt/index.php/lsj/article/view/76 SP - 142-149 AB - <p>The development of rectovaginal fistulae in patients with advanced pelvic malignancies can lead to significant morbidity and suffering. It represents a heavy burden on patients, dealing with local symptoms, psychological distress, and self-image issues, contributing to poor quality of life. It also represents a challenge for clinicians due to the need for multiple professional interventions, need for continuity of care and regular clinical reevaluation. Palliative care professionals play a central role in these cases. Nevertheless, literature in this specific context is lacking. We present a narrative review on this topic, focusing on conservative treatment with both pharmacological measures to control fistula effluent and local care to prevent complications; psychological and spiritual support addressing self-image, self-esteem, and sexuality issues. A summary review of the aetiology, symptomatology, diagnosis and surgical approach is also carried out.</p> ER -