VESICOVAGINAL AND RECTOVAGINAL FISTULAS: 12-YEAR RESULTS OF SURGICAL TREATMENT

Authors

  • Attiya Ayaz
  • Rahat un Nisa
  • Sadia Anwar
  • Taj Mohammad

Abstract

Background: Although the magnitude of obstetric fistulae (OF) is reported to have decreased in
industrialised countries, it is still a major problem in developing countries especially the fistulae
resulting from obstructed labour. Vesico-vaginal fistulae (VVF) are the most common and the most
frequent type of urogenital fistulas. In most cases, surgery is required for treatment. The aim of this
study was to analyse the results of surgical treatment of VVF and Rectovaginal Fistulae (RVF) in a
tertiary level institution over 12 years period. Methods: This retrospective study was conducted at
Ayub Teaching Hospital, and Women and Children Hospital, Abbottabad. It included records of a total
of 74 patients who were surgically treated from 2001 to 2012. Results: Cause of VVF was obstructed
labour in 81.08% of cases, and it was iatrogenic in 18.92% cases. In the surgical treatment of primary
VVF transvaginal approach was used in 91.9%, while transabdomenal approach was used in 2.7%
cases. In 54.1% of cases the VVF healed after a single surgical intervention, while in 45.9% cases
more-than-one operations were required. Conclusion: Birth trauma is still a major cause of VVF/RVF
in our region. Prevention is possible with provision of sufficient health care and public awareness.
Successful repair is possible with 1st surgery.
Keywords: Obstetric fistulae, vesicovaginal fistulae, rectovaginal fistulae, iatrogenic, repair, women

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Published

2012-12-01

How to Cite

Ayaz, A., Nisa, R. un, Anwar, S., & Mohammad, T. (2012). VESICOVAGINAL AND RECTOVAGINAL FISTULAS: 12-YEAR RESULTS OF SURGICAL TREATMENT. Journal of Ayub Medical College Abbottabad, 24(3-4), 25–27. Retrieved from https://www.jamc.ayubmed.edu.pk/jamc/index.php/jamc/article/view/1919

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