Renocolic fistula following a partial nephrectomy: a case study

Abstract

Background Uro-digestive fistulae are uncommon. They frequently manifest themselves with mild symptoms but can, in some cases, be life-threatening leading to septic shock and death. The diagnosis is facilitated by radiological explorations and their management remains mainly surgical. Case presentation We report the case of a diabetic 62-year-old patient who developed a renocolic fistula revealed by a digestive symptomatology, following a partial nephrectomy that was surgically treated with positive overall outcome. Conclusion The development of a fistula between the colon and the kidney is very rare. Although the outcome was positive at the price of total nephrectomy and partial colectomy, the diagnosis and management of the fistula were challenging. Urologists should keep in mind the possibility of a fistula developing in the aftermath of a partial nephrectomy.