Long-term outcome of laparoscopic vesicouterine fistula repair: Experience from a tertiary referral centre

Vesicouterine fistula (VUF) is an uncommon cause of female genito-urinary fistula. Most of these fistulas are due to lower segment uterine cesarean section (LSCS). Traditionally, open surgical repair has been the traditional treatment. However, laparoscopic repair of VUF is a minimally invasive technique and few case reports have been published with short term follow up. In the present study, we are presenting our long- term outcome of laparoscopic repair of VUF.

A retrospective analysis of 8 patients with VUF was performed from 2010 to 2015. Approval of Institutional Review Committee was obtained. All had history of LSCS of whom 3 had history of prolonged obstructed labor. Radiological imaging included ultrasound of kidney, ureter and bladder for all patients and hysterosalphingography in 4 patients and contrast enhanced computed tomography scan in 4 patients.

Median age of the patient was 25.5 years (range, 22-32), and median follow up was 2.3 years (range, 1 -4). The most common presentation was cyclical menstrual bleeding through urine (menouria) in all, associated amenorrhea in 6 and vaginal leakage of urine in 2 cases. All patients underwent laparoscopic repair with successful outcomes. The mean operating time was 155±14.5 min (range, 135-186 min) with a median blood loss of 100 mL (range, 50-210 mL). Successful pregnancy was completed in 2 patients and other patients were taking contraceptives.

Laparoscopic repair of VUF is a safe and effective minimally invasive technique with successful pregnancy in long- term follow up.