Obstetric trauma is the commonest cause of urogenital fistulae

ABSTRACT

To determine incidence of different types of urogenital fistulae, their frequency and success rate of different methods of repair. This descriptive study was conducted at Armed Forces Institute of Urology and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Military Hospital Rawalpindi from January 1997 to January 1998. A total of 44 patients were included in the study. Diagnosis was made by taking comprehensive history, detailed examination and appropriate investigations. Data regarding aetiological and risk factors was gathered. The incidence was 0.26%. Obstetric trauma, mostly prolonged and obstructed labour, was responsible for 53.3% cases and 40% were result of surgical trauma and miscellaneous causes. Forty percent of fistulae were vesico vaginal and same number was simple in type. Nearly 55% were repaired by abdominal route and 75% were successful in 1[st] attempt. Obstetric trauma was the commonest cause of urogenital fistulae. Majority were repaired by abdominal route and 75% were successful in first attempt. Improvement in maternity care in rural areas, easy approach to specialist care and better training of staff in instrumental deliveries may help to decrease the incidence of these fistule