Urethrocutaneous fistula repair: our experience at King Hussein medical center

ABSTRACT

This retrospective study was designed to evaluate the success rate of urethrocutaneous fistula repair using the simple technique and support with vascularized dartos flap. During the period 1999-2005, 62 patients underwent urethrocutaneous fistula repair following hypospadias surgery. Forty patients had distal urethrocutaneous fistula, seven had mid shaft and 15 had proximal urethrocutaneous fistula. All procedures were done by the same surgical team. The repair was performed primarily after six months of the last intervention. Most cases performed over urethral stent and in few complicated cases sialastic foley catheter and suprapubic cystocath for urinary diversion were used. Through the follow-up period of 3.5 years, the results were successful .The success rate at the first attempt was about 84% and 100% after the second attempt. Simple urethrocutaneous fistula repair with applying the basic principles and covering with well-vascularized dartos flap can provide a high success rate. It decreases urethrocutaneous fistula formation especially if the careful harvesting technique is utilized