A review of urinary fistulae in a university teaching hospital

An 8-year study of urinary fistulae from 1974 to 1981 was done in the University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia. The analysis revealed no significant decrease in the number of urinary fistulae referred to the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of the University during the period. Of 61 cases reviewed, 54 were consequent to obstetrical trauma of prolonged labor and superimposed operation or instrumentation. Four fistulae occurred as a complication of gynecologic surgery, while three originated from advanced malignancy of the cervix. Operative management of fistulae is discussed. Further reorganization of rural maternity services in Zambia is suggested as a preventive measure.