Open AccessMinimally invasive delivery of ethanol for the treatment of urinary bladder fistulas
Author(s) -
Andrew Nanapragasam,
Syed Umair Mahmood,
Sebastian Mafeld,
Philip Haslam
Publication year - 2022
Publication title -
bjr case reports
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2055-7159
DOI - 10.1259/bjrcr.20210239
Subject(s) - medicine , fistula , surgery , urinary system , urinary fistula , catheter , foley catheter , foley , balloon catheter , urinary bladder
Urinary bladder fistula formation is a complication of significant morbidity and mortality following pelvic surgery or radiotherapy. Surgical treatment is the definitive management, but it may be contraindicated in patients with significant comorbidities. The alternative approach is to divert urine away from the fistula with stents and catheters, and allow time for healing. The case illustrated herein describes the use of alcohol to accelerate the fibrotic healing of a urinary bladder fistula, based on the premise that sclerosing agents have been effective in the treatment of pancreatic fistulas and renal cysts.