Management of female uro-genital fistulas: Framing certain guidelines

BACKGROUND: The study was carried out to discuss the pathogenesis and management protocol of seven different varieties of female uro-genital fistulas (FUGFs). PATIENTS AND METHODS: During 2000–2007, total of 15 FUGFs were operated, which belonged to seven different varieties requiring different routes and surgical procedures for their repair. Different fistulas with different pathophysiological factors required specific examinations and investigations preoperatively. RESULTS: The results of the repaired FUGFs, following the general surgical principles, were acceptable with formation of only one residual fistula. CONCLUSIONS: Successful correction of FUGFs is a surgical challenge. Detailed history, through examination and planning, atraumatic tissue handling, routine use of the interposition or onlay reinforcement flaps and vigilant postoperative care were found the key factors in successful outcome of the repaired fistulas.