Use of urethral plugs for urinary incontinence following fistula repair

Abstract

A common complication following anatomical closure of obstetric genito-urinary fistula is urinary incontinence. Management is often suboptimal with lack of urodynamic equipment in most fistula centres in developing countries. Surgical interventions have been described with varying success. The aim of this paper is to describe the use of urethral plugs as an alternative management for women with postfistula incontinence, in a developing country. A pilot study was undertaken to assess the effectiveness of the urethral plugs in these women. The use of urethral plugs appear to be an effective short-term management of women with postfistula incontinence, with minimal complications. Longer follow-up and in larger numbers are required.