Microbiome diversity predicts surgical success in patients with rectovaginal fistula.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction and hypothesis

Growing literature details the critical importance of the microbiome in the modulation of human health and disease including both the gastrointestinal and genitourinary systems. Rectovaginal fistulae (RVF) are notoriously difficult to manage, many requiring multiple attempts at repair before correction is achieved. RVF involves two distinct microbiome communities whose characteristics and potential interplay have not been previously characterized and may influence surgical success.

Methods

In this pilot study, rectal and vaginal samples were collected from 14 patients with RVF. Samples were collected preoperatively, immediately following surgery, 6-8 weeks postoperatively and at the time of any fistula recurrence. Amplification of the 16S rDNA V3-

SUBMITTER: Leach DA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8110603 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature