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One‐stage repair for combined fistulas: Myth or reality?
Author(s) -
Ojengbede O.A.,
MorhasonBello I.O.,
Shittu O.
Publication year - 2007
Publication title -
international journal of gynecology and obstetrics
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.895
H-Index - 97
eISSN - 1879-3479
pISSN - 0020-7292
DOI - 10.1016/j.ijgo.2007.06.022
Subject(s) - medicine , colostomy , surgery , stage (stratigraphy) , rectovaginal fistula , fistula , paleontology , biology
Objective The repair of combined vesico‐vaginal fistulas (VVFs) and recto‐vaginal fistulas (RVFs) is challenging to both surgeon and patient. The multistage approach involves at least 3 surgical sessions, all associated with morbidity and sometimes with a colostomy procedure as well. The outcomes of the 1‐stage approach were examined. Methods Twenty patients aged between 16 and 38 years were recruited for a multicenter study conducted from March 2005 to August 2006. Prolonged obstructed labor was the cause of all fistulas. The VVFs were mainly midvaginal (60%), juxtaurethral (25%), and juxtacervical (15%). The RVFs measured between 1 and 3 cm, they were low in 70% of cases, and 1 was associated with fourth‐degree perineal tear. Bowel preparation was performed in all patients prior to surgery. No patient underwent temporary colostomy. Results Both VVFs and VVFs were successfully closed in all patients, as evidenced by the continence dye test. Conclusion The combined repair relieves economic constraints and emotional challenges, and it accelerates restoration to health and social reintegration for women affected with both VVFs and RVFs.