Bladder fistulae in Crohn's disease

Abstract

Ten patients with various stages of enterovesical fistulization in Crohn's disease are discussed. These fistulae can develop at different times in the course of the disease, but may also cause the presenting symptoms. Cystoscopy and radiologic examination rarely visualizes the fistulae. Conservative treatment by medication can sometimes suppress the symptoms, but cannot cure. Surgical treatment, which can consist of resection of intestine but need not involve resection of parts of the bladder, gives good results at least so far as the urinary infection is concerned.