Laparoscopic transperitoneal extravesical repair of vesicovaginal fistula

Abstract

Laparoscopic repair of vesicovaginal fistula (VVF) has been recently reported. We present our experience of laparoscopic transperitoneal extravesical repair of VVF. Fifteen females with supratrigonal VVF were included. Patients with malignant radiation and recurrent fistulas were excluded. Laparoscopic transperitoneal extravesical repair was done using four to five ports. The bladder was closed longitudinally, while the vagina was closed transversally with interposition of omentum in between. Bladder was drained by a urethral catheter for 3 weeks. Mean operative time was 171.6 ± 19.5 min. There was no conversion to open in all patients. Mean blood loss was 110 ± 17 cc. No intraoperative or postoperative complications. Mean hospital stay was 3 ± 1 days. At a mean follow-up of 18.9 ± 8.6 months all patients were cured. Laparoscopic transperitoneal extravesical repair of VVF is a safe and effective minimally invasive procedure for treatment of VVF.