Patent ID: 7022103
Filing Date: 2006-04-04
Classification: A61M

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for locating rectovaginal fistulas, comprising: a. a main, flexible cannula of a predetermined length, having a cannula wall, a proximal end portion with a fluid inlet opening and a distal end portion, the distal end portion insertable a distance into the rectum of a patient, the proximal end portion having a generally conically shaped sealing member that is attached to the cannula wall, and positioned distally of the fluid inlet opening; b. an inflatable balloon on the distal end portion for sealing space between the cannula wall and the rectal wall; c. a second cannula connected to and generally aligned with the first cannula and having proximal and distal end portions, the distal end portion being in fluid communication with the balloon; d. a fitting on the proximal end of the second cannula for accepting a syringe for enabling inflation of the balloon via the second cannula; e. a plurality of openings provided along the wall of the first cannula in between the sealed first and second ends of the cannula; f. a diagnostic fluid insertable into an opening at the first end of the main, flexible cannula and being of a volume sufficient to fill the cannula and exit through the openings and enter a void between the cannula and the wall of the rectum, with sufficient volume of fluid being provided entering the void so that the fluid would seep into any fistulas present and would be visually identifiable in the vagina for diagnosis and treatment.