Laparoscopic resection of urachal fistula
Reinhold Baier1, Bernhard Rumstadt
1Surgical Department, Fürst Stirum Klinik Bruchsal, Gutleutstrasse, Bruchsal, Germany.
Purpose:
Persisting urachal fistula is a rare condition in adults.
Methods:
Data and outcome in 29 patients who were surgically treated for persisting urachal fistula using laparoscopic technique between January 1, 2006 and December 31, 2009 were retrospectively analyzed.
Results:
Persisting urachal fistula could be diagnosed in all patients by clinical examination and ultrasound. Laparoscopic resection was possible in all patients. In 2 individuals (6.8%) the fistula recurred, but could be surgically treated using laparoscopic technique. In 1 patient (3.4%) wound healing complications were observed.
Conclusions:
Clinical examination and ultrasound are generally sufficient for diagnosing persisting urachal fistula. Laparoscopic urachal fistula resection is a safe and effective technique and should thus be taken as a standard procedure.