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Vesicovaginal fistula following pelvic surgery: Our experiences and recommendations for diagnosis and prompt referral
Author(s) -
Thayalan Krishanthy,
Parghi Sneha,
Krause Hannah,
Goh Judith
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
australian and new zealand journal of obstetrics and gynaecology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.734
H-Index - 65
eISSN - 1479-828X
pISSN - 0004-8666
DOI - 10.1111/ajo.13134
Subject(s) - medicine , referral , vesicovaginal fistula , fistula , genitourinary system , general surgery , observational study , retrospective cohort study , surgery , nursing
Background Vesicovaginal fistula (VVF) is an uncommon but known complication of pelvic surgery. Post‐operative urine leakage should generate a high index of clinical suspicion for early diagnosis of VVF. Aims This study aims to identify areas for improvement and provide recommendations for timely and accurate diagnosis of VVF to minimise patient morbidity. Materials and Methods A retrospective observational study of all patients who underwent VVF repairs unrelated to malignancies in a ten‐year period at two primary referral centres in Brisbane was performed to review the aetiology, performance of investigative tests and management of these cases. Results A total of 56 patients were studied with the identification of significant delays to diagnosis and referral, the performance of multiple unnecessary tests and low rates of primary surgeon referral. Conclusions Early recognition of VVF and assessment by outpatient methylene blue dye test can provide quick same‐day diagnosis and minimise patient suffering. We hope this will alert gynaecologists and provide guidelines for diagnosis and improved management to allow for prompt referral and repair of genitourinary fistula.