The burden of vesico-vaginal fistula in north central Nigeria

Vesico Vaginal Fistula (VVF), as seen in this environment, is a major cause of severe morbidity and potential mortality, which can result in marital disruption, rejection and, eventual destitution.

To determine the socio-demographic characteristics, fistula features, and evaluate the intervention measures in Jos, North Central Nigeria.

This study was carried out at the VVF Centre, ECWA Evangel Hospital, Jos, North Central Nigeria.

Descriptive retrospective study.

The patients' records from January 1 to December 31, 2007 were retrieved and analyzed for the demographics, clinical features, management and outcome using EPI Info version 3.4.3, 2008.

A total of 314 patients were treated. The patients aged between 12 to 60 years (SD 6.19) with a mean parity of 3.7. Seventy percent (70%) of the patients were married and living with their husbands, while 65% of the patients were illiterate farmers. Christians and Muslims patients made up 60% and 40% respectively. Juxta-cervical (26%) and juxta-urethral fistulae (26%) were the commonest types, with obstructed labour being the causative factor in 82% of the patients. Ninety three percent of the repairs were repaired via the vaginal approach. The success rate at repair was 69%. Post-operative complications occurred in 16% of the patients.

Vesico- vaginal fistula is a problem in this environment, occurring mainly amongst the illiterate farmers after prolonged obstructed labour. Public enlightenment and appropriate ante-natal care and delivery would reduce the incidence.