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Abstract Background Urogenital fistula can arise from various causes, leading to the development of diverse surgical procedures. The prevention and treatment of obstetric fistula continue to pose challenges in low-income countries. Aim To assess the outcomes and predictors of failure of surgical repair for urogenital fistulas, specifically high vesico-vaginal fistula (VVF) and vesico-uterine fistula (VUF), within our context. Methods Conducted a prospective hospital-based study involving 100 female patients with urogenital fistula (95 VVF and 5 VUF) who underwent abdominal surgical repair at Gezira Hospital for Renal Diseases and Surgery from 2018 to 2023. Collected data encompassing demographics, obstetric history, fistula etiologies, Swab test, cystoscopy findings, urine diversion, ureteric re-implantation, and repair outcomes. Results The majority of women were aged 20–29 years (39%), illiterate (62%), and had a low socio-economic status (87%). Lack of antenatal care was noted in 77% of patients. Fistula etiologies were predominantly obstetric (70%), mainly due to spontaneous vaginal delivery (SVD), with the remaining 30% attributed to gynecological causes (hysterectomy). In terms of fistula characteristics, all patients had a high-level fistula, 95% had a single fistula, and 69% had a posterior wall fistula. Successful closure was achieved in 84% of cases, with 11% experiencing ureteric involvements. The analysis of failures pointed to recurrent fistulae (50%), larger fistula size (31%), and the presence of multiple fistulae (19%) as notable predictors of unsuccessful repair. Conclusion VVF was the prevalent type of urogenital fistula in our population. Risk factors included being in the third decade of life, illiteracy, low socioeconomic status, and a lack of prenatal care. Obstetric causes, particularly prolonged and obstructed labor through SVD, dominated the etiology. Surgical procedures resulted in successful closure in 84% of cases. Recurrent fistulae, larger size, and multiple occurrences emerged as predictors of surgical repair failure.

The main aim of our study was to describe the surgical technique and evaluate the feasibility, efficacy and safety of a vaginal-laparoscopic repair (VLR) of iatrogenic vesico-vaginal fistulae (VVF). Between April-2009 and November-2017, we retrospectively reviewed all clinical, radiological and surgical details of surgery for benign or malignant disease and ended up with VVF. All patients were diagnosed by CT urogram, cystogram and clinical test. The surgical technique was standardised and is described here. Eighteen patients developed VVF after hysterectomy, three after caesarean section and three after hysterectomy and pelvic lymphadenectomy. Twenty-two patients had an average 3 (range 1–5) attempts at fistula repair in other hospitals. In one patient, five attempts were made. The mean size of the fistula was 2.4 cm (range 0.7–3.1 cm). A median 8 weeks (6–16) conservative management with Foley catheter failed in all patients. No conversion to laparotomy and no complication occurred at VLR. Median hospitalisation was 1.4 days (range 1–3). The latter confirmed all patients were dry and tested negative at a repeated filling test. At 36 months follow-up, all patients remained dry. In conclusion, VLR successfully repaired VVF in all patients with primary and persistent VVF. The technique was safe and effective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is strong link between health stigma and poor psychological wellbeing among Vesico-Vaginal fistula (V.V.F.) patients, yet no study to date has investigated the variables mediating this link. This study investigated the mediating role of health disclosure on the relationship between health stigma and psychological wellbeing among V.V.F. patients in Nigeria. Participants were 183 women (aged 14–70 years; mean age 22.88 years, SD = 5.64) conveniently drawn from a National Obstetric Fistula Hospital facility in south-east Nigeria. Participants completed measures of health stigma, health disclosure and psychological wellbeing. Results showed that health disclosure mediated the association between health stigma and psychological wellbeing. The results indicated that increased health stigma would lead to decreased health disclosure which in turn, would lead to poor psychological wellbeing. Our findings highlighted the relevance of health disclosure in the management of stigma impacts on health and wellbeing of V.V.F. patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Raha Maroyi,1,2 Ajay Rane,3 Lynsey Hayward,4 Chasinga Baharanyi,2,5 Bwihangane Birindwa Ahadi,2 Denis Mukwege1,2 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Panzi General Referral Hospital, Bukavu, The Democratic Republic of Congo; 2Université Evangélique en Afrique (UEA), Bukavu, The Democratic Republic of Congo; 3Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD, Australia; 4Department of Urogynaecology, Middlemore Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand; 5Department of Pathology, Panzi General Referral Hospital, Bukavu, The Democratic Republic of CongoCorrespondence: Raha Maroyi, Université Evangélique en Afrique (UEA), P.O. Box 3323, Bukavu, The Democratic Republic of Congo, Tel +243997254812, Email ken.raha01@gmail.comAbstract: We report an unusual case of female genital fistula secondary to a lobular capillary hemangioma. A 35-year-old Congolese woman presented with urinary incontinence associated with a vaginal “tearing” sensation during micturition. A suburethral vascular bud and vesico-vaginal fistula were observed on examination. Over 2 weeks, the fistula enlarged to involve the trigone and bladder neck, resulting in a semi-circumferential urethro-vesico-vaginal fistula. Histology revealed a lobular capillary hemangioma. During fistula repair, the edges with vascular clusters were freshened, the genital fistula was closed and the woman became continent of urine.Keywords: vesico-vaginal fistula, female genital fistula, lobular capillary hemangioma, etiology, surgical procedure

Abstract It is estimated that one million women worldwide live with untreated fistula, a devastating injury primarily caused by prolonged obstructed labor when women do not have access to timely emergency obstetric care. Women with fistula are incontinent of urine and/or feces and often suffer severe social and psychological consequences, such as profound stigma and depression. Obstetric fistula affects economically vulnerable women and garners little attention on the global health stage. Exact figures on fistula incidence and prevalence are not known. In Kenya, results from a 2014 population-based survey suggest that 1% of reproductive-aged women have experienced fistula-like symptoms. In collaboration with key stakeholders, Fistula Foundation launched the Fistula Treatment Network (initially known as Action on Fistula) in 2014 to increase access to timely, quality fistula treatment and comprehensive post-operative care for women with fistula in Kenya. The integrated model built linkages between the community and the health system to support women through all parts of their treatment journey and to build capacity of healthcare providers and community leaders who care for these women. Fistula Foundation and its donors provided the program’s funding. Seed funding, representing about 30% of the program budget, was provided by Astellas Pharma EMEA. Over the six-year period from 2014 to 2020, the network supported 6,223 surgeries at seven hospitals, established a fistula training center, trained eleven surgeons and 424 Community Health Volunteers, conducted extensive community outreach, and contributed to the National Strategic Framework to End Female Genital Fistula. At 12 months post fistula repair, 96% of women in a community setting reported that they were not experiencing any incontinence and the proportion of women reporting normal functioning increased from 18% at baseline to 85% at twelve-months. The Fistula Treatment Network facilitated collaboration across hospital and community actors to enhance long-term outcomes for women living with fistula. This model improved awareness and reduced stigma, increased access to surgery, strengthened the fistula workforce, and facilitated post-operative follow-up and reintegration support for women. This integrated approach is an effective and replicable model for building capacity to deliver comprehensive fistula care services in other countries where the burden of fistula is high.

Background: Previous studies have identified predictors for residual urinary incontinence after successful closure of fistula. However, these findings remain uncertain because the predictors vary from one study to another. The present study aimed to examine the risk of residual stress urinary incontinence after successful closure of vesico-vaginal fistula (VVF)., Materials and Methods: We conducted a multicenter retrospective cohort study over 07-years period, from 1st January, 2010 to 31 December, 2016. We included women who underwent VVF repair in one of the seven fistula centers. At three months postoperatively, a cough test was performed among patients who had their fistula successfully closed. The predicted outcome was the urinary continence status after sussessful closure of the fistula and was categorized as (Residual stress urinary incontinence and No Residual stress urinary incontinence). Multivariable binary logistic regression model was performed to analyze association between outcome and predictors., Results: Overall fistula closure rate at 3 months was 88.6% (404/456). Of the patients who had their fistula successfully closed, 16.3% (66/404) experienced a residual stress urinary incontinence. Risk factors for residual stress urinary incontinence in univariate analysis were: urethro-vesical junction involvement, circumferential fistula, Goh type 3, fistula size greater than 3cm, previous fistula repair, urethra involvement. Three independent predictors have been identified: urethro-vesical junction involvement, previous fistula repair and type 3 of Goh's classification., Conclusion: This study showed that the rate of residual stress urinary incontinence is high in our setting. The involvement of sphincteric mechanism is the main predictor., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.)

It is estimated that one million women worldwide live with untreated fistula, a devastating injury primarily caused by prolonged obstructed labor when women do not have access to timely emergency obstetric care. Women with fistula are incontinent of urine and/or feces and often suffer severe social and psychological consequences, such as profound stigma and depression. Obstetric fistula affects economically vulnerable women and garners little attention on the global health stage. Exact figures on fistula incidence and prevalence are not known. In Kenya, results from a 2014 population-based survey suggest that 1% of reproductive-aged women have experienced fistula-like symptoms. In collaboration with key stakeholders, Fistula Foundation launched the Fistula Treatment Network (initially known as Action on Fistula) in 2014 to increase access to timely, quality fistula treatment and comprehensive post-operative care for women with fistula in Kenya. The integrated model built linkages between the community and the health system to support women through all parts of their treatment journey and to build capacity of healthcare providers and community leaders who care for these women. Fistula Foundation and its donors provided the program's funding. Seed funding, representing about 30% of the program budget, was provided by Astellas Pharma EMEA.Over the six-year period from 2014 to 2020, the network supported 6,223 surgeries at seven hospitals, established a fistula training center, trained eleven surgeons and 424 Community Health Volunteers, conducted extensive community outreach, and contributed to the National Strategic Framework to End Female Genital Fistula. At 12 months post fistula repair, 96% of women in a community setting reported that they were not experiencing any incontinence and the proportion of women reporting normal functioning increased from 18% at baseline to 85% at twelve-months.The Fistula Treatment Network facilitated collaboration across hospital and community actors to enhance long-term outcomes for women living with fistula. This model improved awareness and reduced stigma, increased access to surgery, strengthened the fistula workforce, and facilitated post-operative follow-up and reintegration support for women. This integrated approach is an effective and replicable model for building capacity to deliver comprehensive fistula care services in other countries where the burden of fistula is high. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

J. Marion Sims (1813-1883) was one of the most prominent surgeons of the 19th Century, often referred to as the "Father of Gynecology" for his many contributions to the diagnosis and treatment of female pelvic floor disorders. His most notable contribution was the first reliably successful operation for the treatment of obstetric vesico-vaginal fistula. After Sims's death, the medical profession raised funds to erect a monument to his memory in New York City. Sims developed his surgical approach to fistula closure while operating on a series of young, enslaved African-American women in Alabama. Modern writers have condemned Sims for providing innovative surgical treatment to women with a heretofore devastating and incurable condition. For several years these critics have been systematically seeking to eliminate Sims's memory from the places where he had been honored. Because vesico-vaginal fistulas from obstructed labor are now almost unknown in countries with effective systems of maternal health-care, present-day critics fail to understand the immense suffering caused by these injuries. The argument is made here that a vesico-vaginal fistula was such an overwhelming injury that it dominated all aspects of the day-to-day lives of women with this condition. Rather than being unwilling participants in Sims's surgical endeavors, it is far more likely that these women--even though they were enslaved--were active partners with Sims in their joint search for a cure. The extensive experience of modern surgeons working with poor women suffering from vesico-vaginal fistulas in Africa and Asia supports this perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The study was conducted to estimate the prevalence and risk factors of obstetric fistula in the rural area of the south eastern community of India and the training of community health workers for its prevention. Methods A population-based cross-sectional analytical study was conducted in the south eastern rural community of India. A total of 3939 women were included in the study and Probability proportional to size sampling was used in the study. Frequency distribution and logistic regression were computed to analyse the data using STATA version 11.2. Results Out of 3939 participants interviewed, 23.7% women reported obstetric fistula symptoms whereas after clinical diagnosis and speculum examination the obstetric morbidity pattern was: Obstetric fistula 0.3%, stress urinary incontinence 20.0%, pelvic inflammatory diseases 1.2%, uterine prolapse 1.4% and urinary tract infection 3.8%. The awareness level of the rural women regarding the obstetric fistula was assessed by a structured knowledge questionnaire and found to be very poor, hence community based fistula training was implemented among community health workers as a health system based strategy for its prevention. Obstetric fistula found to be more prevalent among women of poor educational level, low socioeconomic status, less no of antenatal visits, delay in accessing the emergency obstetric care and prolonged labour (p ≤ 0.05). Conclusion Finding of the study indicated that the prevalence and risk of developing obstetric fistula was associated with less number of antenatal visits, prolonged labour, delay in timely intervention, delay in accessing emergency obstetric care and more number of movements from home to the delivery place. Finally, our study suggests that emphasis needs to be placed on training of community health workers to facilitate early screening for identification and referral of women with obstetric fistula.

Introduction: The aim of this study is to determine the outcome of surgically treated vesico-vaginal fistulae (VVaFs) using a transvaginal approach with a Latzko technique. Methods: A retrospective chart study was conducted at the Department of Urology, Radboud University Medical Centre. Surgical approaches to repair VVaF, from 2014 to September 2020, were selected. Patients who underwent a transvaginal approach were included. The primary objective was fistula closure. Secondary objectives were predictive factors for the outcome of the surgical procedure, for example, patient characteristics, leakage on cystography 2 weeks postoperative, and surgery time. Results: Thirty-one patients had surgery for VVaF. Twenty-five procedures (81%) were performed transvaginally. Thirteen of these (52%) had successful transvaginal closure after the first attempt. Seven out of 12 had their second attempt at the time of analysis, of which 4 (57%) were successfully closed thereafter. After either 1 or 2 attempts with the transvaginal approach, 17 (68%) of the VVaFs were successfully closed, but 79% if patients who did not yet had a second attempt were taken into account with the current success extrapolated. Only few minor complications were observed. Conclusion: Transvaginal closure of VVaFs with a Latzko technique is successful in about 79% in either 1 or 2 attempts, with few minor complications. A second attempt in closing the fistula with a transvaginal approach is useful, and a previous transvaginal attempt is not a contraindication for a second transvaginal attempt in closing the VVaF surgically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, there are no clinically available tissue adhesives that work effectively in the fluid-rich and highly dynamic environments of the human body, such as the urinary system. This is especially relevant to the management of vesico-vaginal fistula, and developing a high-performance tissue adhesive for this purpose could vastly expand urologists' surgical repertoire and dramatically reduce patient discomfort. Herein, we developed a water-immiscible mussel protein-based bioadhesive (im WIMBA) with significantly improved properties in all clinical respects, allowing it to achieve rapid and strong underwater adhesion with tunable rheological properties. We evaluated in vivo potential of im WIMBA for sealing thermally injured fistula tracts between the bladder and vagina. Importantly, the use of im WIMBA in the presence of prolonged bladder drainage resulted in perfect closure of the vesico-vaginal fistula in operated pigs. Thus, im WIMBA could be successfully used for many surgical applications and improve treatment efficacy when combined with conventional surgical methods. Vesico-vaginal fistula (VVF) is an abnormal opening between the bladder and the vagina, which is a stigmatized disease in many developing countries. Leakage of urine into internal organs can induce serious complications and delay wound repair. Conventional VVF treatment requires skillful suturing to provide a tension-free and watertight closure. In addition, there is no clinically approved surgical glue that works in wet and highly dynamic environments such as the urinary system. In this work, for potential clinical VVF closure and regeneration, we developed an advanced immiscible mussel protein-based bioglue with fast, strong, wet adhesion and tunable rheological properties. This regenerative immiscible bioglue could be successfully used for sealing fistulas and further diverse surgical applications as an adjuvant for conventional suture methods. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Vesicovaginal fistula (VVF) has devastating effects on a woman's hygiene, self-esteem, interpersonal relationships, and environment disrupting all elements of her health. Despite VVF being a persistent condition, very few researches have been conducted in Nigeria to determine the quality of life (QoL) of these patients. This study was carried out with the aim of assessing the QoL of VVF patients receiving care in a repair center in Sokoto, Northwest Nigeria. Materials and Methods: This was cross-sectional study conducted at a VVF repair center in Sokoto. Study population comprised of patients who had undergone VVF repair at the health facility. The total number of study participants present at the facility was 81, and all were recruited into the study. The study assessed socio-demographics and QoL of the respondents. Data obtained were entered into IBM software package and subsequently analyzed. Level of significance was set at 5%. Results: The environmental domain had the highest mean score of 51.7 ± 11.8 while psychological domain had the least score of 41.3 ± 14.3. The mean overall QoL and general health were 49.5 ± 10.2. There was a moderate positive correlation between physical domain score and Age, (r = 0.258, P < 0.005). There was also a positive correlation between psychological domain score and Husband's educational status (rpb = 0.241, P < 0.05). Social relationship domain score positively correlated with being married (rpb = 0.414, P < 0.01). Conclusion: Older study participants had higher mean scores for physical and psychological domains, while younger study participants had higher overall QoL and general health scores compared with older study participants. Future research should compare the pre and postoperative QoL of women who undergo repair of obstetric fistula. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Obstetric genital fistulas are an uncommon condition in developed countries. We evaluated their causes and management in women treated at a German pelvic floor centre.Methods: Women who had undergone surgery for obstetric genital fistulas between January 2006 and June 2020 were identified, and their records were reviewed retrospectively.Results: Eleven out of 40 women presented with genitourinary fistulas, and 29 suffered from rectovaginal fistulas. In our cohort, genitourinary fistulas were more common in multiparous women (9/11), and rectovaginal fistulas were more common in primiparous women (24/29). The majority of the genitourinary fistulas were at a high anterior position in the vagina, and all rectovaginal fistulas were at a low posterior position. While all genitourinary fistulas were successfully closed, rectovaginal fistula closure was achieved in 88.65% of cases. Women who suffered from rectovaginal fistulas and were at high risk of recurrence or postoperative functional discomfort and desired another child, we recommended fistula repair in the context of a subsequent delivery. For the first time, pregnancy-related changes in the vaginal wall were used to optimize the success rate of fistula closure.Conclusions: In developed countries, birth itself can lead to injury-related genital fistulas. As fistula repair lacks evidence-based guidance, management must be tailored to the underlying pathology and the surgeon's experience. Attention should be directed towards preventive obstetric practice and adequate perinatal and postpartum care. Although vesicovaginal fistulas occur rarely, in case of urinary incontinence after delivery, attention should be paid to the patient, and a vesicovaginal fistula should be ruled out. Trial registration Retrospectively registered, DRKS 00022543, 28.07.2020. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Obstetric Fistula (OF) among pregnant women remains a widespread condition with devastating consequences and poses a significant challenge in a community as well as globally. Objective: To determine the predictors and contributing factors associated with OF and birth outcomes in women undergoing fistula repair at the Dodoma Regional Referral Hospital (DRRH). Method: This retrospective study used hospital records of women repaired over 2013 and 2014. Data were analysed using SPSS version 21 for Window (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). Frequency tables were generated and bivariate analyses were conducted to determine the contributing factors associated with OF using chi-squared statistics. Results: Fifty two women underwent surgical repair of a fistula; 47(90.2%) were primiparous and 5(9.6%) multiparous. There were 42(80.8%) vesico-vaginal fistulae (VVF), and 10(19.2%) recto-vaginal fistulae (RVF). Of those with VVF 5 (9.6%) had been living with urine leakage for 10 years, 25 (48.1%) for 17 years, and 12 (23.1%) for 20 years; all 10 (19.2%) with RVF had been living with the defect for 10 years. No patient had been living with both vaginal and recto fistulae. Most of the fistulas were associated with prolonged difficult spontaneous vaginal delivery but two were associated with surgery: Caesarean Section and hysterectomy. Surgical repair was by the transvaginal 47(90.4%) and trans abdominal 5(9.6%) routes. Female genital mutilation (FGM) was found in all the 28 women from the Gogo tribe but only in 12 of the 24 women from other tribes. Conclusion: Timely fistula repair by experienced fistula surgeons, adhering to fastidious basic surgical principles, will improve outcomes and limit the clinical insult and distress that OF invariably causes. Keywords: obstetrics fistula, recto-vaginal fistula, vesico-vaginal fistula, surgical repair, female genital mutilation, Tanzania.

J. Marion Sims (1813–1883) is often regarded as the founder of modern surgical gynecology. Widely known and respected during his lifetime, he was honored after death with a statue erected in New York City's Bryant Park. It was later relocated to Central Park, where it remained until 2018, when it was removed after persistent public protests over its presence. The controversy arose over perceptions of Sims's most famous achievement: the development of the first reliable surgical cure for vesico-vaginal fistula, a catastrophic complication of prolonged obstructed labor, which was common in the nineteenth century. Sims developed his surgical technique by operating on a group of enslaved African–American women with fistulas between 1846 and 1849. Modern attacks on Sims are based more on a presentist revulsion over the institution of slavery than on a clear understanding of what Sims actually did within the context of his time and place. Modern critics attack his "experimental" surgeries, the patients' lack of "informed consent," and Sims's failure to use anesthesia during fistula surgery. None of these criticisms takes into consideration the appalling nature of the injuries these women had received, the suffering their condition caused them, the lack of any effective "standard-of-care" treatment for fistulas at that time, the social and legal constraints facing doctors who treated slaves, or the uncertain and problematic early history of anesthesiology. Although "retrospective indignation" may be emotionally satisfying, it does not illuminate the past nor help us understand difficult decision-making in surgery, whatever the time or place. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The study was conducted to estimate the prevalence and risk factors of obstetric fistula in the rural area of the south eastern community of India and the training of community health workers for its prevention.Methods: A population-based cross-sectional analytical study was conducted in the south eastern rural community of India. A total of 3939 women were included in the study and Probability proportional to size sampling was used in the study. Frequency distribution and logistic regression were computed to analyse the data using STATA version 11.2.Results: Out of 3939 participants interviewed, 23.7% women reported obstetric fistula symptoms whereas after clinical diagnosis and speculum examination the obstetric morbidity pattern was: Obstetric fistula 0.3%, stress urinary incontinence 20.0%, pelvic inflammatory diseases 1.2%, uterine prolapse 1.4% and urinary tract infection 3.8%. The awareness level of the rural women regarding the obstetric fistula was assessed by a structured knowledge questionnaire and found to be very poor, hence community based fistula training was implemented among community health workers as a health system based strategy for its prevention. Obstetric fistula found to be more prevalent among women of poor educational level, low socioeconomic status, less no of antenatal visits, delay in accessing the emergency obstetric care and prolonged labour (p ≤ 0.05).Conclusion: Finding of the study indicated that the prevalence and risk of developing obstetric fistula was associated with less number of antenatal visits, prolonged labour, delay in timely intervention, delay in accessing emergency obstetric care and more number of movements from home to the delivery place. Finally, our study suggests that emphasis needs to be placed on training of community health workers to facilitate early screening for identification and referral of women with obstetric fistula. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and hypothesis: Obstetric vesico-vaginal fistula is a traumatic complication of prolonged obstructed labor in which pressure necrosis from the impacted fetal head destroys portions of the vesico-vaginal septum, resulting in continuous and uncontrollable urinary incontinence. Ancient evidence suggests that fistula cases have probably been occurring since the development of rotational delivery mechanics in anatomically modern humans hundreds of thousands of years ago. It is likely that attempts to repair such injuries also have a long history. The early history of vesico-vaginal fistula surgery was investigated to determine the earliest credible report of successful cure of this condition. Methods: Historical review of vesico-vaginal fistula surgery was undertaken, focusing on the work of Henry Van Roonhuyse, a seventeenth century Dutch surgeon living in Amsterdam. Results: Van Roonhuyse's clinical treatise entitled Medico-Chirurgical Observations (1676) was reviewed in detail and is described in this article. His technique for vesico-vaginal fistula repair included six essential steps that are still recognizable today: (1) use of the lithotomy position; (2) exposure of the fistula with a speculum; (3) sharp paring of the fistula edge prior to attempted closure; (4) careful approximation of the denuded edges of the fistula; (5) dressing of the wound with absorbent vaginal packing; (6) immobilization of the patient in bed until the repair has healed. Conclusions: Henry Van Roonhuyse is the most credible candidate presently known for having successfully repaired a vesico-vaginal fistula in the pre-modern era. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To compare the outcome of Vesicovaginal fistula repair by omental transposition and perivesical fat emplacement in terms of recurrence and maximum bladder capacity. Study Design: Randomized control trial. Setting: Urology department of Peoples University Hospital Nawabshah, Sindh, Pakistan. Period: From January 2018 to December 2018. Material & Method: Overall 40 patients with VVF were added in the research, split into two identical groups, each consisting of 20. In group 1, omental transposition and in group 2, perivesical fat emplacement was done. Adult female patients with Vesicovaginal fistula, resulting from obstetrical and as a complication of surgery was included. This was confirmed by physical examination, IVU, pelvic computerized tomography scan with contrast, retrograde uretherocystogram, ultrasound KUB and cystoscopy. Exclusion criteria were Patients with systemic illness like diabetes mellitus, chronic renal failure and chronic liver disease etc, immunosuppressant therapy like: steroids intake, patient's undergone irradiation of the pelvis due to any malignant disease. Follow up after 6, 12 and 24 weeks, all the patients were assessed for recurrence. The complications like wound infections, urgency, urge incontinence and paralytic ileus were also noted. The data was collected in a specially designed proforma. Results: In this study 40 patients fulfilling the inclusion criteria were included, 20 patients in each group. The success rate was 95%(19/20) in group 1, only one case had recurrence. While in group 2 all the cases were successful. Chi square analysis was employed for comparison of adequacy of both the techniques, the P value was found to be 0.311 which suggests that the difference between the efficacies was not statistically significant. Conclusion: It is concluded that both the techniques of Vesicovaginal fistula repair, either with omental transposition or perivesical fat emplacement are equally good in terms of recurrence and maximum bladder capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, we review the current uses and future directions of robotic surgery in the field of female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery. Pelvic surgery is ideal for the use of surgical robots, which provide improved visualization and ease of suturing deep within the pelvis. Robots have been successfully used for the treatment of pelvic organ prolapse, in procedures such as sacrocolpopexy, sacrohysteropexy, and uterosacral ligament plication. Surgeons have used the robotic successfully to treat various etiologies of female pelvic pain including fibroids, endometriosis, and nerve entrapment. Robotic repair of iatrogenic injury has been described with excellent outcomes and avoidance of conversion to open surgery in the event of an injury caused using the robotic platform. While more data is needed on this topic, there has been increasing interest in using the robot for urologic reconstruction including repair of vesico-vaginal fistula, cystectomy, augmentation cystoplasty, and continent and non-continent diversions. Recently the use of the robot has been described in the treatment of stress urinary incontinence in females, with robotic placement of an artificial urinary sphincter. While robotic surgery is associated with increased cost, the outcomes of robotic surgery in female urology are promising. More studies that properly evaluate the benefits of robotic surgery as compared to open and laparoscopic approaches are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is well-documented that obstetric fistula, a severe birth injury, is caused by a prolonged obstructed labour that has not been relieved on time. Lay people often understand causation differently. This study sought to explore the awareness and local meanings attached to obstetric fistula in the rural parts of Malawi. We conducted interviews with key informants and focus group discussions with community members in purposively selected communities in the central region of Malawi. We categorised data using Nvivo 10 and conducted a thematic analysis. Findings indicate that there is considerable awareness about fistula in local communities; however, community members have very limited knowledge about its causes. Participants associated obstetric fistula with sexually transmitted diseases, the woman's laziness to push during labour, witchcraft and the husband's infidelity, which contributed to the isolation of the affected women. Strategies to eradicate obstetric fistula in general, and its social consequences in particular, should include more information on causes and prevention. This may help to dispel misconceptions about fistula, increase acceptance and support for women with fistula, and subsequently improve the quality of their lives and the lives of girls and women who may suffer from this condition in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vaginal stones are incredibly rare. Primary stones are seen in cases of urethro-vaginal or vesico-vaginal fistula. Secondary stones are more common and caused by deposition of calcium over foreign bodies introduced into the vagina. This report presents a case of a 63-year-old woman with vesico-vaginal fistula incidentally diagnosed to have large vaginal stone. The patient was referred to our practice suffering from urine dribbling through the vagina for a long time secondary to vesico-vaginal fistula. She has had repetitive unsuccessful attempts of surgical repair. MRI examination of the pelvis was requested aiming to locate the site of the fistula.

Vesico-vaginal fistula (VVF) is a dreaded complication of gynaecologic and obstetric procedures with many approaches and techniques described for its repair. We present a novel technique of dual natural orifice transluminal endoscopic repair of VVF.

Although pelvic exenteration has been for a long time considered as a last therapeutic option or salvage treatment for persistent or recurrent cervical cancer, nowadays this procedure became rather a radical one with good results in terms of postoperative outcomes and overall survival. In cases presenting with locally invasive malignancies or tumor related fistulas pelvic exenteration remains the only curative option. We present the case of a 49 years old patient diagnosed with locally advanced cervical cancer associated with vesico-vaginal fistula in whom a total exenteration with pelvic and inter-aortico-caval lymph node dissection was performed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gynecologic and plastic surgeons collaborate to improve vaginal reconstruction for women with vaginal stenosis and obstetric fistula. As these cases occur typically in low-resource settings, the Singapore flap is a useful technique given its reliability, safety, ease of dissection, and minimal need for additional supplies. The fasciocutaneous flap maintains cutaneous innervation and vasculature and does not require stenting. The surgical collaboration has made it possible to provide functional vaginal reconstruction as a part of the overall care of obstetric fistula patients. The technique shows promise for improving sexual function for women with obstetric fistula and may also enhance healing.Tweetable Abstract: Gynecologic & plastic surgeons collaborate to improve vaginal reconstruction for women with obstetric fistula. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and hypothesis: We tested the null hypothesis that there were no differences between patients with obstetric fistula and parous controls without fistula. Methods: A unmatched case-control study was carried out comparing 75 women with a history of obstetric fistula with 150 parous controls with no history of fistula. Height and weight were measured for each participant, along with basic socio-demographic and obstetric information. Descriptive statistics were calculated and differences between the groups were analyzed using Student's t test, Mann-Whitney U test where appropriate, and Chi-squared or Fisher's exact test, along with backward stepwise logistic regression analyses to detect predictors of obstetric fistula. Associations with a p value <0.05 were considered significant. Results: Patients with fistulas married earlier and delivered their first pregnancies earlier than controls. They had significantly less education, a higher prevalence of divorce/separation, and lived in more impoverished circumstances than controls. Fistula patients had worse reproductive histories, with greater numbers of stillbirths/abortions and higher rates of assisted vaginal delivery and cesarean section. The final logistic regression model found four significant risk factors for developing an obstetric fistula: age at marriage (OR 1.23), history of assisted vaginal delivery (OR 3.44), lack of adequate antenatal care (OR 4.43), and a labor lasting longer than 1 day (OR 14.84). Conclusions: Our data indicate that obstetric fistula results from the lack of access to effective obstetrical services when labor is prolonged. Rural poverty and lack of adequate transportation infrastructure are probably important co-factors in inhibiting access to needed care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and hypothesis: The Goh Vesico-Vaginal Fistula (VVF) classification has prognostic value in VVF in the developing world (predominantly obstetric), with chances of successful closure decreasing from type 1 to type 4. We evaluated the prognostic value of the Goh classification for VVF of the developed world (predominantly iatrogenic). Methods: A retrospective review was performed of 63 consecutive patients with a mean age of 53 years (range 21−88) undergoing VVF repair under a single surgeon between 2006 and 2014. Demographic data, aetiology, operative data and final outcome (anatomical and functional) were recorded. Fistulae were classified according to Goh's system and outcomes correlated with this classification. Results: Successful closure at first repair was achieved in 90 % of type 1, 83 % of type 2, 100 % of type 3 and 100 % of type 4 fistulae. At second repair success was achieved in 100 % of all fistulae, irrespective of type. Continence post-anatomical closure was achieved in 100 % of type 1, 83 % of type 2, 83 % of type 3 and 75 % of type 4 fistulae. Fistula size and patient age were significant determinants of successful outcome. Conclusion: Anatomical closure was obtained in 90 % of VVF of the developed world at first attempt, 100 % overall, and was not affected by the Goh classification. Continence post-anatomical closure of VVF was 94 % overall and deteriorated with increasing Goh classification type. The Goh classification has no prognostic value regarding anatomical closure in VVF of the developed world, but may be useful in determining the risk of post-anatomical closure urinary incontinence. Smaller fistula size and younger patient age are significant determinants of success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and hypothesis: Obstetric fistulas are injuries to the genital tract in women without emergency obstetric services. Parity may predict the characteristics of fistulas that affect closure success and residual incontinence. Circumferential fistulas may predispose patients to postoperative incontinence. We hypothesized that primiparous women have more distal fistulas than multiparous women, leading to more scarring and circumferential fistulas. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted on 1,856 women with obstetric fistula evaluated at three sites by three providers. Fistulas were classified using the Goh classification system. Women aged 10 to 55 years were classified as primiparas or multiparas. Analysis by parity of fistula type and size, degree of scarring, and presence of circumferential defect used the Chi squared or Fisher's exact test, and binary logistic regression. Results: Of the 1,841 (99.2 %) women included, 878 (47.7 %) were primiparas and 963 (52.3 %) were multiparas. Primiparas were more likely to have distal fistulas, type 4 being most common (31.5 %), whereas multiparas were more likely to have proximal fistulas, most commonly type 1 (48.1 %). Primiparas were more likely to have moderate to severe scarring (11.7 % vs 5.6 %; p < 0.001), and category III (57.1 % vs 39.2 %; p < 0.001), but not to develop circumferential fistulas (5.6 % vs 4.0 %; p = 0.127), be present for repeat surgery (7.1 % vs 7.6 %; p = 0.721), or have ureteric involvement (1.5 % vs 2.2 %; p = 0.301). Multivariate analyses confirmed increased risk with primiparity for distal fistula and scarring. Conclusions: As hypothesized, primiparas were more likely to have distal fistulas and more scarring, but were not more likely to have circumferential fistulas. Surgeons should plan accordingly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gracilis muscle flap as vascularized healthy tissue gives patients with otherwise irreparable obstetric fistulas another option before urinary diversion as 95% are healed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our objective was to assess the contribution of general practitioners trained in fistula repair in Burundi. We conducted a retrospective, descriptive study, collecting 70 cases from June 2020 to May 2021 at Gitega Regional Hospital, 47.1% being under 30 years old, 77.1% of whose fistulae were successfully repaired with lasting continence regained within six months. This demonstrates that training of general practitioners in vesico-vaginal fistula repair has filled a gap resulting from the lack of surgeons in Burundi.

Background: Vesicovaginal fistula (VVF) is an abnormal opening between the bladder and the vagina that results in continuous and unremitting urinary incontinence. It is the most distressing complications of gynecologic and obstetric procedures. Materials and methods: It was a prospective study conducted at Gandhi Medical College and Hospital in Department of Urology from February 2014 to July 2015 for a period of 18 months. All cases were subjected to clinical examination, ultrasonography, IVP, cystoscopy, vaginoscopy, and cystogram for confirmation of diagnosis. All cases were managed surgically by different modalities and results were analyzed. Results: Our study included the patients in the age group of 18 to 56 years. 22 patients presented with continuous urine leak with voiding and 13 patients presented with voiding in addition to incontinence of urine. Out of 35 cases 25 were secondary to Gynecological surgeries and 10 were of Obstetric fistulas. Conclusion: The diagnosis of VVFs has traditionally been based on clinical methods and dye testing. The best chance of a successful repair is at the first attempt. The arguments about the most appropriate route for repair continue and are not clarified by the publications so far. However, the role of interposition grafts at both abdominal and vaginal repairs is viewed positively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context Urogenital fistula is a global healthcare problem, predominantly associated with obstetric complications in low-resourced countries and iatrogenic injury in well-resourced countries. Currently, the published evidence is of relatively low quality, mainly consisting retrospective case series. Objective We evaluated the available evidence for aetiology, intervention, and outcomes of urogenital fistulae worldwide. Evidence acquisition We performed a systematic review of the PubMed and Scopus databases, classifying the evidence for fistula aetiology, repair techniques, and outcomes of surgery. Comparisons were made between fistulae treated in well-resourced countries and those in low-resourced countries. Evidence synthesis Over a 35-yr period, 49 articles were identified using our search criteria, which were included in the qualitative analysis. In well-resourced countries, 1710/2055 (83.2%) of fistulae occurred following surgery, whereas in low-resourced countries, 9902/10 398 (95.2%) were associated with childbirth. Spontaneous closure can occur in up to 15% of cases using catheter drainage and conservative approaches are more likely to be successful for nonradiotherapy fistulae. Of patients undergoing repairs in well-resourced countries, the median overall closure rate was 94.6%, while in low-resourced countries, this was 87.0%. Closure was significantly more likely to be achieved using a transvaginal approach then a transabdominal technique (90.8% success vs 83.9%, Fisher's exact test; p = 0.0176). Conclusions It is difficult to conclude whether any specific route of surgery has advantage over any other, given the selection of patients to a particular procedure is based upon individual fistula characteristics. However, surgical repair should be carried out by experienced fistula surgeons, well versed in all techniques as the primary attempt at repair is likely to be the most successful. Patient summary Urogenital fistulae are a common problem worldwide; however, the available evidence on fistula management is poor in quality. We searched the current literature and identified that 95% of fistulae occur following childbirth in low-resourced countries, whereas 80% of fistulae are associated with surgery in well-resourced countries, where successful repair is also more likely to be achieved. The first attempt at repair is often the most successful and therefore fistula surgery should be centralised to hospitals with the most experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 19th-century surgical theaters in which American gynecological science was perfected were sites animated by multiple forms—and myriad conceptions—of labor. While newly professionalized white medical men celebrated the work of their own hands in speeches and in published articles, the lives and work of enslaved women in these early clinical spaces were alternately effaced and re-imagined in support of dominant narratives of medical progress. Black women’s injuries, their suffering, their instances of endurance, and, indeed, their very bodies were made to testify to the prowess of their examining physicians. The black female test subjects who comprised the first cohorts subjected to the emergent gynecological technologies of the mid-19th-century labored under the condition of enslavement. Their value in the discursive and syntagmatic spaces of the case reports written about them during the latter decades of the century was, therefore, wrought through with the political economy of chattel slavery. This essay argues that the early clinical spaces created by the American medical men heralded as the founding fathers of American gynecology—including James Marion Sims and his colleague Nathan Bozeman—mark critical locations mapping slavery’s circuits of value production. Further, it troubles prevailing historiography of slavery and medicine by considering the repetitive representations of black women’s bodies as part of the reproductive work that they were called to do. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Our case report demonstrates that the use of tackers or other devices in a improper way should be avoid and it can be correlated with late complication of laparoscopic colposacropexy.

Background and Objective: Pelvic surgery, radiation, cancer of cervix and trauma due to vesicovaginorectal fistula. There are different treatments depending on the size of fistula and also factors that cause occurring this disease. In some rare cases, this fistula can extend and involve the rectal wall and cause vesicovaginorectal fistula. Case: A 55-year-old female patient referred with urinary incontinence because of prolonged difficult labor in 30 years ago. Five years after labor because of large fistula, ureters anastomosed to sigmoid colon (An unusual method). Paraclinical tests showed a large stone (10×10 cm) in all urethra, vagina and rectum. After bowel preparation, she was operated by a midline laparotomy incision and the stone was removed. Conclusion: Late complications of ureterosigmoidostomy are stenosis of ureter to sigmoid, cancer of rectum and stone formation. For this purpose, more follow up should be done after this type of operation.

In the non-industrialized countries of Africa and Asia obstetric fistulas are more frequently caused by prolonged labour, whereas in countries with developed healthcare systems they are generally the result of complications of gynaecological surgery or, rarely, benign pathologies like inflammation or foreign bodies. A 22-year-old woman was brought to the gynaecology clinic because of foul-smelling vaginal discharge. On pelvic examination a ring-like foreign body was impacted between the anterior and posterior vaginal wall. MRI scan confirmed the presence of a cylindrical foreign body in the vagina and the patient revealed that she had 'involuntarily' inserted a plastic bubble bath cap into the vagina. At surgery removal of the cap was difficult and at the end of the manoeuver evidence of a huge urethro-vesico-vaginal fistula occurred. The patient was discharged with bilateral ureteral stents and suprapubic catheter. After 3 months we performed an end-to-end anastomotic urethroplasty to repair the urethral avulsion and restored the bladder/trigonal and vaginal/cervical defects with 3 layers of sutures; 3 months later the patient had no complaints. Complex genital fistulas represent an extremely debilitating morbidity. In our case, a vaginal approach was successful, but the choice between an abdominal or vaginal approach depends on the surgeon's experience and training. © 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and hypothesis: Mayer-Rokitansky-Küster-Hauser syndrome (MRKH) is a rare genital aplasia syndrome. Patients with MRKH regularly dilate their neovagina with vaginal dilatators. Methods: A 23-year-old MRKH syndrome patient came to our department complaining of a lost vaginal dilator, which she had inserted 2 days previously. She had no bleeding or abdominal pain, but did have occasional urine loss. She had a history of abdominal exploration for an acute abdomen and the creation of a neovagina at the age of 16. An abdominal CT scan located the dislocated dilator intravesically. After diagnostic laparoscopy, the dilator was removed through the vesico-neovaginal perforation. The vagina was closed and covered by a pedicled peritoneal flap, followed by closure of the urinary bladder. An omental J-flap was then fixed between the vagina and bladder. Results: The operative time was 185 min, with no significant blood loss, injuries or need for conversion/revision. The indwelling catheter was removed 7 days later after cystography, followed by normal micturition and an adequate bladder capacity. Vaginal dilation and sexual activity was resumed 1 month postoperatively. Follow-up was uneventful. Conclusions: Laparoscopic vaginal dilator removal with immediate repair of the perforation of the neovagina and the urinary bladder directly after an acute trauma in a patient with MRKH syndrome may be a management option. It is a feasible, safe and viable operation in the hands of experienced laparoscopists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dr James Marion Sims was born in 1813 in Lancaster County, South Carolina. It was while pioneering numerous surgical procedures in Alabama that in 1849 he achieved the outstanding landmark in medical history of successfully, and consistently, repairing vesicovaginal fistulae. Sims soon developed a reputation as a fine surgeon, with new operations and techniques, using novel surgical instruments and his innovative approaches frequently published. Moving to New York City in 1853, he further established hospitals devoted entirely to women’s health. Sims was controversial, with flamboyant descriptions of self-confident success, yet they were tempered with sober reflection of failure and loss. Today we remain with the Sims speculum and Sims position, eponymous tributes to his accomplishments as the ‘Father of Gynaecology’. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Although pelvic exenteration has been for a long time considered as a last therapeutic option or salvage treatment for persistent or recurrent cervical cancer, nowadays this procedure became rather a radical one with good results in terms of postoperative outcomes and overall survival. In cases presenting with locally invasive malignancies or tumor related fistulas pelvic exenteration remains the only curative option. We present the case of a 49 years old patient diagnosed with locally advanced cervical cancer associated with vesico-vaginal fistula in whom a total exenteration with pelvic and inter-aortico-caval lymph node dissection was performed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Vaginal stones are incredibly rare. Primary stones are seen in cases of urethro-vaginal or vesico-vaginal fistula. Secondary stones are more common and caused by deposition of calcium over foreign bodies introduced into the vagina. This report presents a case of a 63-year-old woman with vesico-vaginal fistula incidentally diagnosed to have large vaginal stone. The patient was referred to our practice suffering from urine dribbling through the vagina for a long time secondary to vesico-vaginal fistula. She has had repetitive unsuccessful attempts of surgical repair. MRI examination of the pelvis was requested aiming to locate the site of the fistula. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vesico-vaginal fistula (VVF) is one of maternal health problems confronting public health workers in Nigeria today. Information on how women suffering from this condition cope is important in that it can inform the design and delivery of programmes and interventions to address the challenges that face victims of VVF. The objective of this study was to highlight how women living with VVF cope with the health problem in Ebonyi state, Nigeria. In-depth interviews were conducted with ten women awaiting repairs at the National Fistula Centre at Abakaliki in Nigeria. Six of the women have lived with the health problem for more than ten years. Findings show that nearly all the women attributed their health problem to supernatural causes. The women stated that they go through a lot of physical and emotional problems. Some of the ways they have devised of physically coping with the problem include bathing regularly and use of strips of old wrappers as pads. Many of them cope emotionally and financially by attending religious gatherings and having some form of income yielding business. The study recommends the need for repairs to go hand in hand with vocational training so that they will have some income yielding business after repairs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vesico-vaginal fistula (VVF) is a major public health issue in Nigeria. This study focused on VVF patients seeking treatment. Hospital records were used to sample 30 respondents. Three focus group discussions were conducted and analyzed in themes. Results reveal that most of the respondents did not know what brought about their condition, whereas some felt it was a curse from the gods. Respondents reported discrimination and stigmatization by relatives. Findings suggest the need to have trained social workers working in all fistula centers in the country. They will help in the counseling, rehabilitation, and reintegration of these women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction and hypothesis: World Health Organisation data suggest that two million women live with the physical and psychosocial effects of obstetric fistula. As part of an expanded fistula programme in Tanzania, Comprehensive Community Based Rehabilitation in Tanzania (CCBRT) introduced an evaluation strategy to include impact of surgery on psychosocial aspects of obstetric fistula. This is an initial report documenting morbidity on admission. Methods: A questionnaire assessing the impact of obstetric fistula was developed taking into account literature in the field including sections on: patient contact information, transport costs and a set of statements regarding the effects of fistula. The effects were spread across five domains: the physical consequences of obstetric fistula, the effects of a difficult delivery and possible stillbirth, the experience of isolation, the inability to undertake daily living activities and feelings of depression. The questionnaire was administered in Kiswahili by Tanzanian counsellors shortly after admission of patients onto the fistula ward. Results: A total of 100 fistula patients reported high rates of physical and psychosocial morbidity. Over half of the patients said they would not have been able to access treatment without the transport costs being covered. Conclusions: Fistula patients are affected by extremely high rates of physical and psychosocial morbidity. Further work is required to confirm these findings, validate assessment tools and assess contributing factors in greater detail over time, such as the effect of stillbirth, as well as the impact of surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Study Type - Therapy (case series) Level of Evidence 4 What's known on the subject? and What does the study add? Whilst several very large series of obstetric fistulae from the developing world have been published, data on fistulae as seen in the developed world are relatively few. Most fistulae in the UK are known to follow hysterectomy, and several risk factors are recognised. We have confirmed the common association with pelvic surgery, and in particular hysterectomy, but also show the broad range of other associated operations, including so called 'minimally invasive' procedures. High rates of both anatomical fistula closure and continence are shown, when a consistent approach to assessment, selection of surgical procedure, and postoperative care are applied. Successful closure is seen more often in women who have not undergone previous attempts at repair before referral, and as a result a pattern of surpra-regional management is proposed. Whilst overall the number of urogenital fistulae seen in the UK appears to be decreasing, there is a suggestion from these data that the rate of fistula formation following hysterectomy may be increasing; we are currently investigating this possibility through detailed interrogation of a national dataset. OBJECTIVE To review demography, aetiology, surgery and outcomes of women with urogenital fistula seen in one unit over the last 25 years; to provide data for comparison with a parallel study based on Hospital Episode Statistics., PATIENTS AND METHODS This is a prospective case series from a tertiary urogynaecology centre providing a de facto supra-regional fistula service., The women included had confirmed urogenital fistula referred between January 1986 and December 2010. Index cases were identified from a surgical database; data were entered prospectively and updated as appropriate; statistics are largely descriptive., The primary outcome is the patient's report of absence of urinary leakage., Secondary outcomes include operative or postoperative complications, anatomical closure of the fistula, other residual or new urinary symptoms, and the need for further intervention., RESULTS In all, 348 women with urogenital fistula were referred; two-thirds were of surgical aetiology, with almost half following hysterectomy. Although 11% followed childbirth, most of these followed operative obstetric interventions., Spontaneous closure occurred in 6.9% of women and 291 underwent surgical treatment., The anatomical closure rate at first operation was 95.7%, although 2.2% reported residual urinary incontinence., The success rates were similar regardless of aetiology, although successful fistula closure was significantly more likely in women who had not had attempts at closure before referral (98.2 vs 88.2%; Fisher's exact test; P= 0.003)., CONCLUSION High rates of fistula closure are reported regardless of aetiology, although previous unsuccessful repair militates against successful outcome; this emphasises the appropriateness of centralisation of the management of this increasingly rare condition in UK practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]