Context: Genitourinary fistulas present significant challenges in surgical management, often causing considerable distress. In developing countries, these are commonly linked to obstetric trauma, while in developed regions, they often result from gynecologic or pelvic surgeries. Aims: This retrospective study aims to analyze the etiology, diagnostic methods, surgical approaches, and outcomes of genitourinary fistulas treated over four years at a tertiary care center. Settings and Design: The study is a single-center retrospective review of 30 cases treated surgically from 2020 to 2023. Methods and Material: Patient data on demographics, etiologies, diagnostic methods, and surgical techniques were gathered from medical records. Statistical analysis used: Descriptive statistics were applied to summarize demographics, fistula types, and surgical outcomes, with success rates calculated for each technique. Results: Vesico-vaginal fistulas were the most common, often following abdominal hysterectomies. Trans-abdominal repairs, especially with omental repair, showed high success rates. There was a decline in obstetric-related fistulas and an increase in cases linked to gynecologic surgeries, especially hysterectomies. Conclusions: The study identifies a shift in genitourinary fistula etiologies, with a decline in vesico-vaginal fistulas (VVF) due to better obstetric care and an increase in uretero-vaginal fistulas (UVF) linked to rising hysterectomy rates. Trans-abdominal repair techniques showed high success rates, emphasizing the importance of surgical principles for optimal outcomes.
Original Article
English
P. 141-145