Magnetic resonance imaging to detect vesico-symphyseal fistula following robotic prostatectomy

Pubic complications following radical prostatectomy are rare. Osteitis pubis typically presents with symptoms related to irritation of the pubic rami including pain with ambulation and adduction of the leg. A 60-year-old male with prostatic adenocarcinoma underwent uneventful robotic assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy. The patient noted the onset of severe pubic pain exacerbated by ambulation approximately one month post-surgery. An abdominal/pelvic CT scan was negative for acute pathology. Due to continued discomfort, a multiplanar MRI of the pelvis was performed with and without intravenous contrast material (20 ml Omniscan). The MRI demonstrated irregularity of the bladder base and proximal urethra with a fistulous tract extending anteriorly in direct communication with the pubic symphysis joint space. Vague periarticular marrow edema-like signal and enhancement at the pubic symphysis was thought to represent osteitis pubis. The patient's symptoms resolved after one month of urethral catheter drainage, intravenous antibiotics, and anti-inflammatory therapy.