Laparoscopic treatment of colovesical fistulas: technique and report of two cases

Abstract

Colovesical fistulas are a serious complication of diverticular disease. Management by one-stage resection and anastomosis has resulted in lower morbidity and shorter hospital stay. Nevertheless, hospital time remains long, approaching an average of 2-3 weeks. Here we describe our technique of laparoscopic approach to colovesical fistulas. Our initial experience suggests that this is a safe operation with minimal pain, absent ileus, and a short postoperative stay.