Size Of Fistula Research Articles

Navigating the Needles: Unveiling the Risks of Acupuncture: A Case Report.

Acupuncture, an increasingly popular alternative medical therapy, has heightened the demand for information on its safety profile. This is a case report involving a 28-year-old female who presented with intense right-sided chest pain and breathlessness after an acupuncture session where needles were inserted into her chest wall. The immediate medical evaluation revealed a tension pneumothorax with radiographic evidence of a mediastinal shift, compelling, urgent intervention via chest tube insertion. The patient's symptoms persisted for 2 days before the pneumothorax diminished, facilitating the removal of the chest tube. This case emphasizes the atypical presentation of pneumothorax after acupuncture, suggesting a delayed onset of symptoms possibly related to the size of the bronchopleural fistula formed by the acupuncture needle. While acupuncture-related adverse events are uncommon, serious life-threatening complications like tension pneumothorax underscore the necessity for rigorous safety standards. Amidst the growing popularity of acupuncture, this report urges healthcare professionals to be aware of and report such incidents for enhanced patient education and safety. Trial Registration: This is not an interventional study. We only reported the patient's findings from our database as a case report.

Comprehensive interdisciplinary treatment of patient with unilateral cleft palate and oroantral fistula using archwise Interdental distraction osteogenesis: A case report with 1-year follow-up

A unilateral cleft palate with a wide oroantral fistula necessitates meticulous treatment planning and precise execution to mitigate the risk of relapse. It is arduous to address substantial gaps through conventional surgeries using buccal, labial mucosal flaps, or tongue flaps and is associated with heightened failure rates. In recent years, the introduction of interdental distraction osteogenesis (DO) has facilitated successful interventions in mending extensive cleft defects. In this case report, an adult patient with unilateral cleft palate and oronasal fistula has been successfully managed with orthodontic treatment and interdental DO using a custom-made device. The patient received successful treatment through orthodontic treatment and interdental DO utilizing a custom-made device abiding by Ilizarov’s principles. The size of the oroantral fistula was reduced significantly with a successful approximation of the segments. Subsequently, prosthetic replacement of the distracted segment was performed to restore esthetics. Follow-up images and radiographs showcase the stability and integrity of the arches. The epilogue of this case report is that the implementation of transport distraction can be accounted as an effective treatment approach when meticulously planned and followed through. By integrating early detection, multidisciplinary interventions, and ongoing support, healthcare professionals can significantly enhance outcomes and empower individuals to lead fulfilling lives despite their condition.

A Case of Oronasal Fistula Repaired With Inferior Turbinate Rotational Flap

Oronasal fistula is a rare but significant complication that diminishes the quality of life for patients undergoing treatment for cleft palate and head and neck cancer. Various surgical reconstruction methods can be used based on the size and location of the oronasal fistula. The intranasal inferior turbinate rotational flap is a simple and safe method for reconstructing the defect of nasal cavity. In this case report, we experienced a small oronasal fistula of a 50-year-old female caused by osteoradionecrosis after treatment for her malignant melanoma. Successful reconstruction was achieved with inferior turbinate rotational flap alone. For small oronasal fistula in the hard palate, the inferior turbinate flap alone can be a useful option for reconstruction.

Risk factors for developing residual stress urinary incontinence after vesico-vaginal fistula repair: A retrospective cohort study

BackgroundPrevious studies have identified predictors for residual urinary incontinence after successful closure of fistula. However, these findings remain uncertain because the predictors vary from one study to another. The present study aimed to examine the risk of residual stress urinary incontinence after successful closure of vesico-vaginal fistula (VVF). Materials and methodsWe conducted a multicenter retrospective cohort study over 07-years period, from 1st January, 2010 to 31 December, 2016. We included women who underwent VVF repair in one of the seven fistula centers. At three months postoperatively, a cough test was performed among patients who had their fistula successfully closed. The predicted outcome was the urinary continence status after sussessful closure of the fistula and was categorized as (Residual stress urinary incontinence and No Residual stress urinary incontinence). Multivariable binary logistic regression model was performed to analyze association between outcome and predictors. ResultsOverall fistula closure rate at 3 months was 88.6% (404/456). Of the patients who had their fistula successfully closed, 16.3% (66/404) experienced a residual stress urinary incontinence. Risk factors for residual stress urinary incontinence in univariate analysis were: urethro-vesical junction involvement, circumferential fistula, Goh type 3, fistula size greater than 3cm, previous fistula repair, urethra involvement. Three independent predictors have been identified: urethro-vesical junction involvement, previous fistula repair and type 3 of Goh's classification. ConclusionThis study showed that the rate of residual stress urinary incontinence is high in our setting. The involvement of sphincteric mechanism is the main predictor.

Efficacy of ultrasonography and color-Doppler for early prediction of hemodialysis arteriovenous fistula unassisted maturation.

Arteriovenous fistula (AVF) failure is a prevalent concern for patients with end-stage kidney disease on hemodialysis. Recognizing the efficacy of ultrasound Doppler in post-operative AVF evaluation, this study sought to discern the predictive capabilities of various ultrasonographic and color-Doppler metrics for early AVF outcomes. This single-center, prospective cohort study spanned 1 year and, post ethical clearance, included all patients who underwent native AVF creation surgery and were subsequently referred for standard post-operative ultrasound Doppler assessment. Parameters such as fistula size, cephalic vein area and diameter, and AVF flow velocity and rates were assessed on post-operative day 2, week 2, and week 6. These initial findings were juxtaposed with later outcomes to determine unassisted AVF results. Of the initial cohort of 40 patients, 75% encountered AVF failure, whereas 25% realized successful unassisted AVF maturation. A notable observation was the significant variance in AVF flow rates as early as post-operative day 2. A threshold of >246 ml/min was indicative of successful unassisted AVF maturation, leading to a sensitivity of 80% and a specificity of 70%. Although the cephalic vein diameter on post-operative day 2 lacked a robust association with AVF outcomes, a cut-off of >3.4 mm, when combined with flow rate testing, augmented the cumulative sensitivity to 92%. Ultrasound Doppler stands out as a valuable quantitative imaging modality, adept at prognosticating AVF outcomes from as early as post-operative day 2. In particular, a flow rate exceeding 246 ml/min and a cephalic vein diameter surpassing 3.4 mm are salient indicators for the early prediction of successful AVF outcomes.

What Free Flaps Are Surgeons Using for Palatal Fistula Repair in Patients with Cleft Palate? A Systematic Review.

Recalcitrant palatal fistulas in patients with cleft palate history sometimes require free flap reconstruction. This study reviews the literature on described flaps and outcomes. A systematic review was conducted per the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines. All study designs were included. Non-English articles were excluded. Patients with a history of cleft palate who underwent free flap reconstruction for a oronasal fistula. Free tissue transfer for a palatal fistula repair. Information regarding defect and flap characteristics were reviewed. Surgical outcomes such as flap loss rates, rates of recurrent fistula formation, and speech outcomes were also obtained. Our search returned 894 articles, of which 23 were included. All studies were retrospective case series and reports. A total of 65 patients were described with an average age of 19.3 (range 3-55) years and a median fistula size of 8.00 cm2 (range 2.54 cm2 - 24 cm2). The most common flap was the radial forearm flap (n = 37). Nine patients (13.8%) had recurrent fistula formation with surgical revision successful in all cases in which the patient returned to the operating room. There were two partial flap losses and no total flap losses. Speech outcomes showed improvement in 27 patients across 10 studies. Palatal fistula repair with free tissue transfer is safe with an acceptable risk profile and low flap loss rate. Early recurrence due to partial flap necrosis and dehiscence are successfully managed with flap readvancement.

Efficacy and risk factors of stent placement in the treatment of malignant tracheoesophageal fistula.

Due to the low incidence of malignant tracheoesophageal fistula and the paucity of relevant clinical studies, the benefits of stent implantation have not been well documented. It remains unclear which factors may affect fistula closure. Between January 2015 and January 2021, 344 patients who were diagnosed with malignant tracheoesophageal fistula at Zhongda Hospital, Southeast University, were retrospectively enrolled. Demographic and clinical data were collected. Risk factors for fistula closure identified by univariate analysis were further analyzed using multivariable logistic regression. A total of 288 patients were analyzed in this study, of which 94 were treated conservatively, 170 were treated with an esophageal stent, and 24 were treated with a tracheal stent. Among them, the delta Karnofsky's performance status score values (after 2 weeks/before treatment [p = 0.0028], after 1 month/before treatment [p = 0.0103]) were significantly different between conservative and stent treatment. There was a significant reduction of pneumonia incidence in the stenting group (33.53%) compared to the conservative treatment group (77.05%) after one month (p <0.0001). In addition, the closure of fistulas was influenced by four independent risk factors: 1) treatment methods (p < 0.0001), 2) fistula size (p = 0.0003), 3) preoperative white blood cell count (p = 0.0042), and 4) preoperative Karnofsky's performance status score (p = 0.0001). Stent implantation has become an effective method for treating malignant tracheoesophageal fistula compared to conservative treatment. Additionally, stent implantation, smaller fistula size, lower preoperative white blood cell count, and higher preoperative Karnofsky's performance status score suggest a better outcome.

Insights into Atresia Ani Type IV in Felis catus: Preliminary Epidemiolocal Findings Associated with Surgery.

Atresia Ani (AA) is a rare congenital anomaly in companion animals affecting rectal and anal development. Its incidence in cats remains unreported. This retrospective study aimed to characterize age, body condition, fistula size, and perioperative outcomes in Type IV Atresia Ani (with recto-vaginal fistula) in female cats. Surgical intervention is the primary treatment. Conducted over 2 years, the study included nine female cats diagnosed with Type IV Atresia Ani and recto-vaginal fistula undergoing surgery. Statistical analysis used the R program (version 4.2.1) with Rstudio®® extension. Significant results were observed at a 95% confidence interval and p < 0.05. The condition had an incidence of 4.7% among the 192 cats evaluated over a 2-year period. The findings suggest that a body condition score of 3, an age of 3 to 4 weeks, and a fistula length of 1 to 2 mm correlated with better surgical outcomes, reducing the likelihood of fecal incontinence and anal stenosis development, and enhancing defecation awareness during the perioperative period. This study is the first to report the disease incidence in cats undergoing surgery, according to the authors' knowledge.

Comparative study on the establishment efficacy of four types of animal models of rectovaginal fistula in rabbits

Various surgical methods have so far been developed for treating rectovaginal fistula (RVF), each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The lack of standardized animal models of RVF is a major reason for the failure to establish a unified and effective surgical method for the treatment of RVF. This study aimed to explore the feasibility of an RVF animal model by magnetic compression and compare it with the traditional modeling method. Thirty-two female Japanese white rabbits were randomly divided into four groups: A, B, C, and D, based on how the rectovaginal septum was treated. The operation time, intraoperative blood loss, and model success rate of each group were determined. The experimental animals were euthanized 2 weeks after the operation. Their rectovaginal septum specimens were obtained. RVF was observed by the naked eye. The fistula size was measured. Histological changes of fistula were observed by hematoxylin and eosin and Masson staining. All rabbits completed the RVF model and survived 2 weeks after the operation. Groups A and B had no bleeding, while groups C and D had < 0.5 mL of bleeding. The magnet detached in 4–6 days in group A, while it remained in place for 2 weeks after surgery in group B. Only one group D rabbit had a plastic hose for 2 weeks after surgery. The RVFs of groups A and C healed by themselves. In group B, the fistula was well formed. In group D, fistula healing was observed in three animals and the diameter of the fistulas was only 2.82–4.64 mm in the other four animals. Groups B and D had a scar on the inner surface of fistulas. Our study shows that the magnetic compression technique based on the T-shaped magnet is a highly useful method to establishing a continuous and stable RVF model in rabbits.

Obstetric vesico-uterine fistula in nine reference hospitals in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: epidemiological, clinical, and therapeutic aspects

IntroductionWith global cesarean section rates rising, there’s concern about increase in obstetric vesico-uterine fistula (OVUF). Very little is known about this anatomoclinical entity of obstetric fistula in Africa in general and in DRC in particular. Our purpose was to describe the epidemiological, clinical, and therapeutic aspects of OVUF in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).MethodsThis was a descriptive cross-sectional study. Data were collected from patients who presented with OVUF across seven provinces of the DRC (North Kivu, Haut-Uélé, Kasai Central, Kwilu, Maniema, Nord-Ubangi and Sankuru) from January 2017 to December 2022. Study variables were epidemiological, clinical, and therapeutic features.ResultsOf 1,267 patients presenting with obstetric fistulas, 355 (28.0%) had OVUF. The mean age was 32.9 ± 11.6 years, 80.6% of patients (286/355) lived in rural areas, and the majority had a low level of education (40% no formal education, 30.1% primary school, 28.7% secondary school). In total, 64.8% of patients were primiparous (230/355) and in all (100%) cases, OVUF was caused iatrogenically during cesarean delivery. Majority (76.3%) of patients laboured for one day or less (mean duration 1.0 ± 0.5 days) before giving birth, and the fetus died in 58.3% of cases. In 35.8% of cases, the fistula had lasted more than 10 years (mean age 10.1 ± 10.0 years) before repair. A proportion of 88.2% (n = 313) of OVUF was isolated while 11.3% (n = 40) was associated with a uretero-vaginal fistula. In 82.8% (n = 294) of cases the OVUF was single. The average fistula size was 2.4 ± 1.0 cm (range: 0.5 and 5.5 cm) and 274 (77.2%) fistulas measured between 1.5 and 3 cm, with 14.9% (n = 53) of them larger than 3 cm. Fibrosis was present in 65.1% of cases, cervical involvement was absent in 97.7% and post-operative complications were absent in 94.4%. In all cases, the OVUF was surgically repaired abdominally with a success rate of 97.5% (346/355).ConclusionThe proportion of OVUF is relatively high in the DRC. Most affected patients were young, under-educated, primiparous women living in rural areas. Cesarean section was the sole identified cause of OVUF which was isolated, single, without fibrosis, in majority of cases. Abdominal repair of OVUF was very effective, with good results in almost all cases. Teaching young doctors working mainly in remote areas how to perform safe cesarean section is needed to reduce incidence of OVUF in DRC.

HEART FAILURE WITH PRESERVED EJECTION FRACTION (HFPEF) IN A PATIENT WITH RECENT TAVI AND NUMEROUS CORONARY FISTULAS OF THE LEFT CORONARY ARTERY DRAINING INTO THE VENTRICULAR CAVITY

Abstract Coronary fistula is a rare form of congenital heart disease and is defined as an abnormal connection between a coronary branch and a cardiac chamber or a large intrathoracic vessel without the interposition of the capillary circulation. The right coronary artery is the most common site of origin for coronary fistula. Other sites include the left anterior descending artery and left circumflex artery. The clinical presentation and the natural history can be extremely variable depending on the patient‘s age, fistula size, and anatomy. Small to medium–sized coronary fistulas may be asymptomatic. Large fistulas can manifest with angina pectoris due to myocardial ischemia secondary to the coronary steal phenomenon. Shunting through large fistulas can have hemodynamic consequences secondary to volume overload in the pulmonary or systemic circulation, leading to symptoms and signs of heart failure. We describe the case of an 83–year–old woman recently undergoing TAVI and suffering from primary myelofibrosis requiring periodic transfusions. Pre–TAVI coronary angiography showed coronary vessels free from significant hemodynamic lesions and multiple coronary–ventricular fistulas draining into the left ventricle. Total body aortic CT angiography did not reveal other abnormal vascular connections. One month after the aortic valve correction procedure, the patient presented with heart failure (HfpEF). At a recent follow–up visit, diuretic therapy was discontinued due to the successful correction of aortic valve disease and normal ejection fraction. Due to further anemization from the underlying hematologic condition, the patient underwent blood transfusion with worsening of dyspnea despite correction of hemoglobin levels. Discontinuation of diuretic therapy and transfusion of red blood cell units resulted in volume overload with worsening clinical condition. The presence of multiple coronary fistulas precluded an interventional approach, but therapeutic optimization and reintroduction of diuretic therapy restored the patient‘s hemodynamic compensation. Usually fistulas drain into the low–pressure venous circulation like right ventricle and right atrium. This case represents a rare instance of multiple left coronary fistulas draining into the left ventricle (only 3% of cases). Aortic valve correction may have further reduced left ventricular telediastolic pressures, worsening the shunt of coronary fistulas resulting in heart failure due to volume overload.

Proportions and determinants of successful surgical repair of obstetric fistula in low- and middle-income countries: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Obstetric fistula is a serious and debilitating problem resulting from tissue necrosis on the reproductive and urinary and/or lower gastrointestinal tract organs due to prolonged labor. Primary studies of the treatment of obstetric fistulae report significantly variable treatment outcomes following surgical repair. However, no systematic review and meta-analysis has yet estimated the pooled proportion and identified the determinants of successful obstetric fistula surgical repair. To estimate the proportion and identify the determinants of successful surgical repair of obstetric fistulae in low- and middle-income countries. The protocol was developed and registered at the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (ID CRD42022323630). Searches of PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Scopus databases, and gray literature sources were performed. All the accessed studies were selected with Covidence, and the quality of the studies was examined. Finally, the data were extracted using Excel and analyzed with R software. This review included 79 studies out of 9337 following the screening process. The analysis reveals that 77.85% (95%CI: 75.14%; 80.56%) of surgical repairs in low and middle-income countries are successful. Women who attain primary education and above, are married, and have alive neonatal outcomes are more likely to have successful repair outcomes. In contrast, women with female genital mutilation, primiparity, a large fistula size, a fistula classification of II and above, urethral damage, vaginal scarring, a circumferential defect, multiple fistulae, prior repair and postoperative complications are less likely to have successful repair outcomes. The proportion of successful surgical repairs of obstetric fistula in low and middle-income countries remains suboptimal. Hence, stakeholders and policymakers must design and implement policies promoting women's education. In addition, fistula care providers need to reach and manage obstetric fistula cases early before complications, like vaginal fibrosis, occur.

Pseudoaneurysm formation following transarterial embolization of traumatic carotid-cavernous fistula with detachable balloon: An institutional cohort long-term study.

The goal of therapy for traumatic carotid-cavernous fistula (TCCF) is the elimination of fistula while maintaining patency of the parent artery. The treatment for TCCF has evolved from surgery to endovascular management using detachable balloons, coils, liquid embolic agents, covered stents, or flow-diverter stent through arterial or venous approaches. Despite the withdrawal of detachable balloons from the market in the United States since 2004, transarterial embolization with detachable balloons has currently remained the best initial treatment for TCCF in several countries. However, the pseudoaneurysm formation following transarterial detachable balloon embolization has rarely been observed in long-term follow-up. To determine the occurrence and long-term follow-up of pseudoaneurysm after transarterial detachable balloon for TCCF. Between January 2009 and December 2019, 79 patients diagnosed with TCCF were treated using detachable latex balloons (GOLDBAL) of four sizes. Pseudoaneurysm sizes were stratified into five grades for analysis. Initial and follow-up assessments involved computed tomography angiography at 1 month, 6 month, 1 year, and longer intervals for significant cases. Clinical follow-ups occurred semi-annually for 2 years, then annually. Factors analyzed included sex, age, fistula size and location, and balloon size. In our cohort of 79 patients treated for TCCF, pseudoaneurysms formed in 67.1%, with classifications ranging from grade 0 to grade 3; no grade 4 or giant pseudoaneurysms were observed. The majority of pseudoaneurysms did not progress in size, and some regressed spontaneously. Calcifications developed in most large pseudoaneurysms over 5-10 years. Parent artery occlusion occurred in 7.6% and recurrent fistulas in 16.5%. The primary risk factors for pseudoaneurysm formation were identified as the use of specific balloon sizes, with balloon SP and No. 6 significantly associated with its occurrence (P = 0.005 and P = 0.002, respectively), whereas sex, age, fistula size, location, and the number of balloons used were not significant predictors. Pseudoaneurysm formation following detachable balloon embolization for TCCF is common, primarily influenced by the size of the balloon used. Despite this, all patients with pseudoaneurysms remained asymptomatic during long-term follow-up.

Optimization of tracheoesophageal fistula model established with T-shaped magnet system based on magnetic compression technique.

The magnetic compression technique has been used to establish an animal model of tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF), but the commonly shaped magnets present limitations of poor homogeneity of TEF and poor model control. We designed a T-shaped magnet system to overcome these problems and verified its effectiveness via animal experiments. To investigate the effectiveness of a T-shaped magnet system for establishing a TEF model in beagle dogs. Twelve beagles were randomly assigned to groups in which magnets of the T-shaped scheme (study group, n = 6) or normal magnets (control group, n = 6) were implanted into the trachea and esophagus separately under gastroscopy. Operation time, operation success rate, and accidental injury were recorded. After operation, the presence and timing of cough and the time of magnet shedding were observed. Dogs in the control group were euthanized after X-ray and gastroscopy to confirm establishment of TEFs after coughing, and gross specimens of TEFs were obtained. Dogs in the study group were euthanized after X-ray and gastroscopy 2 wk after surgery, and gross specimens were obtained. Fistula size was measured in all animals, and then harvested fistula specimens were examined by hematoxylin and eosin (HE) and Masson trichrome staining. The operation success rate was 100% for both groups. Operation time did not differ between the study group (5.25 min ± 1.29 min) and the control group (4.75 min ± 1.70 min; P = 0.331). No bleeding, perforation, or unplanned magnet attraction occurred in any animal during the operation. In the early postoperative period, all dogs ate freely and were generally in good condition. Dogs in the control group had severe cough after drinking water at 6-9 d after surgery. X-ray indicated that the magnets had entered the stomach, and gastroscopy showed TEF formation. Gross specimens of TEFs from the control group showed the formation of fistulas with a diameter of 4.94 mm ± 1.29 mm (range, 3.52-6.56 mm). HE and Masson trichrome staining showed scar tissue formation and hierarchical structural disorder at the fistulas. Dogs in the study group did not exhibit obvious coughing after surgery. X-ray examination 2 wk after surgery indicated fixed magnet positioning, and gastroscopy showed no change in magnet positioning. The magnets were removed using a snare under endoscopy, and TEF was observed. Gross specimens showed well-formed fistulas with a diameter of 6.11 mm ± 0.16 mm (range, 5.92-6.36 mm), which exceeded that in the control group (P < 0.001). Scar formation was observed on the internal surface of fistulas by HE and Masson trichrome staining, and the structure was more regular than that in the control group. Use of the modified T-shaped magnet scheme is safe and feasible for establishing TEF and can achieve a more stable and uniform fistula size compared with ordinary magnets. Most importantly, this model offers better controllability, which improves the flexibility of follow-up studies.

Determinants and predictive model of failure of surgical repair of obstetric vesico-vaginal fistula in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

IntroductionSurgical repair of obstetric fistula aims to restore the anatomical and functional integrity of the urinary tract, enabling affected women to regain their dignity and quality of life. However, such repairs can end in a failure. The aim of this study is to develop a predictive score to identify factors influencing failure of surgical repair of obstetric vesico-vaginal fistula (FSROVVF) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.MethodsThis was an analytical cross-sectional study of 318 women with obstetric vesico-vaginal fistula (OVVF) who had undergone surgical management. A bivariate and then a multivariate analysis were performed. Score discrimination was assessed using the ROC curve and C-index, and score calibration using the Hosmer–Lemeshow test.ResultsSurgical repair of OVVF was unsuccessful in 16.98% of cases (54/318). After logistic modeling, six criteria emerged as predictive factors for FSROVVF: the presence of fibrosis (AOR = 5.01; 95% CI:1.73–14.49), the presence of 2 or more fistulas (AOR = 9.04; 95% CI:3.01–27.13), the association of OVVF with another anatomoclinical entity of fistula (AOR = 3.16; 95% CI:1.09–9.13), the fistula size > 3 cm (AOR = 3.65; 95% CI:1.36–9.76), the peri-operative hemorrhage (AOR = 7.01; 95% CI:2.33–21.03), and the post-operative infection (AOR = 178.89; 95% CI:26.09–1226.64). A score ranging from 0 to 13 points was obtained, of which a value ≤ 5 points defines a low risk of FSROVVF, a value between 6 and 8 points defines a moderate risk and value ≥ 9 points corresponds to a high risk of FSROVVF. The area under the ROC curve of the score is 0.925 with a sensitivity of 61.11%, a specificity of 96.59%, a positive predictive value of 78.57% and a negative predictive value of 92.39%.ConclusionThis study demonstrated that the number of fistulas ≥ 2, fistula size > 3 cm, fibrosis, association of OVVF with other types of fistulas, peri-operative hemorrhage, and post-operative infection are factors predictive of FSROVVF. These six factors are key contributors to the score used to predict FSROVVF. Once validated, this score will inform and enable preoperative counseling regarding the prognosis and the chances of a successful outcome of surgical repair of OVVF.

Genitourinary Fistula: epidemiology, changing trends in etiology and management: A tertiary care institute's perspective.

Urogenital fistula is a physically, socially and psychologically devastating condition for the patient. In developed countries, these fistulae are typically related to gynecological surgery, pelvic pathology like malignancy or post radiation therapy. In contrast, classical teaching is that urogenital fistulae in the developing countries like India are usually associated with prolonged labor and obstetric complications. This retrospective study conducted at a tertiary care health Institute shows a paradigm shift in epidemiology, etiology and management of genitourinary fistulae in India in recent times. This retrospective study included patients undergoing surgical repair for various genitourinary fistulae at our institute from 2016 to 2022. Epidemiology, etiology, site, size and number of fistulae, clinical presentation, and management records of these patients were recorded and reviewed retrospectively. In our study, the mean age of the patients was 38.4 ± 10.2 years. Vesicovaginal Fistula (VVF) was found to be most common fistula in the study population (87.5%) followed by vesicouterine (7.1%) and urethrovaginal fistula (5.4%). The causes of genitourinary fistula were iatrogenic (73.2%), carcinoma of cervix (16.1%), obstructed prolonged labor (7.1%), and genitourinary tuberculosis (3.57%). Among the 48 vesicovaginal fistulas that underwent surgery, 45.8% were treated using a transvaginal approach, 29.2% were managed through a laparoscopic transabdominal repair, and 25% were addressed using a robotic approach. Recurrence occurred in 7.1% of the operated patients. Enhanced healthcare services in the country have contributed to a decrease in the incidence of obstructed labor, subsequently reducing related injuries. Iatrogenic injuries resulting from gynecological surgeries and carcinoma cervix have given rise to more complex fistulas, necessitating the implementation of advanced treatment strategies.

Urinary incontinence following successful closure of obstetric vesicovaginal fistula repair in Southern Ethiopia

BackgroundUrinary incontinence (UI) after successful closure of obstetric vesicovaginal fistula (VVF) repair is a widely recognized public health problem. However, there is insufficient research evaluating the factors associated with UI after successful obstetric VVF repair in Ethiopia.ObjectivesThe main aim of this study was to assess the magnitude and associated factors of UI following the successful closure of obstetric VVF repair at the Yirgalem Hamlin Fistula Center in the Sidama region of southern Ethiopia.MethodsA retrospective cross-sectional analytical study was performed on patients who underwent obstetric VVF repair at the Yirgalem Hamlin Fistula Center between 2016 and 2020. The data were collected from September to October 2021. EPI Data Version 3.1 and SPSS Version 25.0 were used for data entry and analysis. A multivariable binary logistic regression model was used for all variables significant in the bivariate binary logistic analysis to determine the association between the independent variables and outcome variables. The data are presented in tables and figures. Variables with a p-value < 0.05 were considered to be statistically associated with the study outcome.ResultsIn total, 499 study subjects were included. The magnitude of UI after successful closure of obstetric VVF repair was 23.25%. A Goh type 4 fistula (AOR = 4.289; 95% CI 1.431, 12.852), a fistula size > 3 cm (AOR = 8.855; 95% CI 4.786, 16.382), a partially damaged urethra (AOR = 2.810; 95% CI 1.441, 5.479), and a completely destroyed urethra (AOR = 5.829; 95% CI 2.094, 16.228) were found to be significantly associated factors with the outcome variable.ConclusionsNearly one in four patients who had successful closure of obstetric VVF repair at the Yirgalem Hamlin fistula center had UI, which is above the WHO recommendations. The presence of a Goh type 4 fistula, large fistula size, and damaged urethral status significantly affect the presence of UI. Therefore, interventions are necessary to prevent and manage UI among patients who underwent obstetric VVF repair and had a closed fistula.

OUTCOME OF EARLY TRANSABDOMINAL SUPRAPUBIC REPAIR OF VESICOVAGINAL FISTULA SECONDARY TO BENIGN GYNECOLOGICAL AND OBSTETRIC SURGERIES

Objectives: To determine the effectiveness of early operative management of patients with Vesicovaginal fistula (VVF) secondary to benign gynecological surgeries. Material and methods: It is a descriptive case series of 70 patients selected from August 2018 to Oct 2022. All patients meeting inclusion criteria had routine lab investigations, imaging, cystoscopy, and vaginoscopy. The suprapubic approach described by O’Conor et al; was used. All surgeries were performed between the 4th and 6th weeks after the onset of the fistula to allow some time for tissue healing. All patients were followed after 2 weeks; a cystogram was performed to document fistula closure followed by removal of Foleys catheter. A second follow-up was at 3 months, patients were assessed with patient global impression of improvement score (PGI-I) for improvement in symptoms. Results: The mean age of the patients was 40.6 ± 10.2 years. 14(19.7%) patients were primipara while 56 (78.9%) patients were multipara. The mean fistula size was 11.5 ± 4.5mm. Supra-trigonal fistulas were more common than trigonal fistulas 43(60.6%) vs 27(38%). Hysterectomy (including cesarean hysterectomy and simple hysterectomy) was the commonest cause of VVF followed by cesarean section and difficult labor 33(46.5% vs 21(29.6) vs 12(16.9%). The overall mean operative time was 125.3 ± 10.7 minutes. The mean hospital stay was 3.8 ± 0.8 days. The fistula was successfully closed in 64 (90.1%) patients while 6 (9.9%) patients had failed surgery. The small-size fistulas (5-10mm) had a higher success rate of closure than larger fistulas (11-20mm) with statistical significance (p=0.02). Over 63 (90 %) patients responded PGI score below 3 with much improvement in symptoms. Conclusion: Our results show that early operative management of VVF secondary to benign gynecological and obstetric surgeries is feasible and effective. It also improves the symptoms of patients with PGI-I score. KEYWORDS: Vesicovaginal fistula (VVF), early repair, hysterectomy.

HEAL Africa score to predict failure of surgical repair of obstetric urethro-vaginal fistula in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

IntroductionObstetric fistula (OF) repair surgery aims to restore the anatomical and functional integrity of the urinary tract, allowing affected women to regain their dignity and quality of life. However, in some cases, this surgical repair may fail. The objective of this study was to develop a predictive score to identify factors associated with the failure of surgical repair of obstetric urethro-vaginal fistula (FSROUVF) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).MethodsThis is an analytical cross-sectional study of 358 patients with obstetric urethro-vaginal fistula (OUVF) who received surgical repair. We conducted bivariate and multivariate analyses. Score discrimination was assessed using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, C-index, and score calibration according to the Hosmer-Lemeshow test.ResultsSurgical repair of OUVF failed in 24.86% of cases (89/358). After logistic modelling, 6 criteria predicted FSROUVF: the use of intravaginal indigenous products (AOR = 3.59; 95% CI: 1.51–8.53), the presence of fibrosis (AOR = 6.37; 95% CI: 1.70–23.82), the presence of 2 or more fistulas in the same patient (AOR = 7.03; 95% CI: 3.14–15.72), the total urethral damage (AOR = 3.29; 95% CI: 1.36–7.95), the fistula size > 3 cm (AOR = 5.65; 95% CI: 2.12–15.01), and the postoperative infection (AOR = 351.10; 95% CI: 51.15–2409.81). A score of 0 to 14 was obtained, with a value ≤5 points indicating a low risk of FSROUVF, a value between 6 and 8 indicating a moderate risk, and a value ≥9 points corresponding to a high risk of FSROUVF. The area under the ROC curve of the score is 0.938 with a sensitivity of 60.67%, a specificity of 96.28%, a positive predictive value of 84.38%, and a negative predictive value of 88.10%.ConclusionWe report a FSROUVF rate in the DRC approaching a quarter of operative patients. Predictors of failure included fibrosis, presence of 2 or more fistulas, total urethral involvement, fistula size greater than 3 cm, postoperative infection, and use of intravaginal indigenous products. These factors are constitutive of the HEAL Africa score, which once validated, may have value in pre-operative counselling of patients. This study could be valuable for policy and strategies to address the problem of OUVF in the DRC and in resource limited settings more generally.

Obstetric fistula repair failure and its associated factors among women who underwent repair in sub-Saharan Africa. A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Obstetric fistula repair failure can result in increased depression, social isolation, financial burden for the woman, and fistula care programs. However, there is limited, comprehensive evidence on obstetric fistula repair failure in Sub-Saharan African countries. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the pooled prevalence of obstetric fistula repair failure and associated factors among women who underwent surgical repair in Sub-Saharan African countries. To identify potential articles, a systematic search was done utilizing online databases (PubMed, Hinari, and Google Scholar). The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Statement (PRISMA) guideline was used to report the review's findings. I2 test statistics were employed to examine study heterogeneity. A random-effects model was used to assess the pooled prevalence of obstetric fistula repair failure, and the association was determined using the log odds ratio. Publication bias was investigated using the funnel plot and Egger's statistical test at the 5% level of significance. Meta-regression and subgroup analysis were done to identify potential sources of heterogeneity. The data were analyzed using STATA version 17 statistical software. A total of 24 articles with 9866 study participants from 13 Sub-Saharan African countries were included in this meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of obstetric fistula repair failure in sub-Saharan Africa was 24.92% [95% CI: 20.34-29.50%]. The sub-group analysis by country revealed that the highest prevalence was in Angola (58%, 95% CI: 53.20-62.80%) and the lowest in Rwanda (13.9, 95% CI: 9.79-18.01%). Total urethral damage [OR = 3.50, 95% CI: 2.09, 4.91], large fistula [OR = 3.09, 95% CI: (2.00, 4.10)], duration of labor [OR = 0.45, 95% CI: 0.27, 0.76], and previous fistula repair [OR = 2.70, 95% CI: 1.94, 3.45] were factors associated with obstetric fistula repair failure. Women who received surgical treatment for obstetric fistulas in Sub-Saharan African countries experienced more repair failures than the WHO standards. Obstetric fistula repair failure was affected by urethral damage, fistula size, duration of labor, types of fistula, and history of previous repairs. Therefore, we suggest policy measures specific to each country to provide special attention to the prevention of all risk factors, including poor nutrition, multiparty, obstructed labor, and maternal age, which can result in conditions like large fistulas, urethral damage, and repeat repair, in order to reduce obstetric fistula repair failure.