[The diagnosis and treatment of ureterovaginal fistulae]

The paper describes 15-year experience gained by the authors in diagnosis and surgical treatment of ureterovaginal fistulas (UVF) in 300 patients. Etiological and pathogenetic mechanisms of this condition were studied. This enabled the authors to develop and introduce into clinical practice the algorithm of UVF diagnosis which employs an optimal complex of diagnosis methods practiced in patients with traumatic ureteral fistulas. The authors emphasized the importance of performing transcutaneous puncture nephrostomy and transperitoneal approach for plastic reconstruction of distal portions of the ureters. Satisfactory outcomes were obtained in 259 (86.3%) patients.