Vietnamese Doctors Save Patient With Rectal Transection After Two Surgeries

Doctors at Viet Duc Friendship Hospital have successfully performed emergency surgery to save a 42-year-old male patient who suffered a complete transection of the rectum, compounded by severe infection. This type of injury is exceptionally rare, with no prior records in Vietnam and limited documented cases in global medical literature. The patient was transferred to Viet Duc Friendship Hospital from another medical facility, presenting with severe infection in the perianal and rectal area. Approximately 7-10 days prior, he had undergone two surgeries for hemorrhoids and an anal abscess. However, his condition progressively worsened post-operatively, prompting his family to seek transfer to a specialized center. According to Dr. Nguyen Dac Thao, a specialist from the Center for Digestive Surgery and Pelvic Floor Disorders, upon admission, the medical team recognized the case as highly complex. The patient exhibited diffuse inflammation of the perineum and a critical risk of life-threatening sepsis, necessitating immediate emergency surgery to control the infection. Given the rarity of the injury, for which no specific treatment protocol exists in Vietnamese or international medical texts, the management strategy was entirely based on the surgeons' experience and their assessment of the actual damage. Following thorough consultations, the surgical team focused on infection control, created a temporary colostomy, and strived to preserve the patient''s natural anal function. Currently, the patient is stable, able to eat and walk normally. However, he is expected to undergo an additional 3-4 surgeries in the future with the hope of restoring natural bowel function. Doctors advise patients with anal and rectal conditions to seek treatment at reputable medical facilities with specialized departments. They caution against self-treating with unverified methods or performing interventions at home, as these can lead to severe complications, potentially resulting in death or permanent colostomy. In cases of post-operative complications, immediate transfer to a specialized hospital is crucial for timely management. Lower-level healthcare facilities are encouraged to consult proactively with specialized hospitals like Viet Duc Friendship Hospital when encountering complex cases.