Robotic vesico-vaginal fistula repair with no omental flap interposition

Int Urogynecol J. 2016 Aug;27(8):1277-8. doi: 10.1007/s00192-016-2989-5. Epub 2016 Mar 10.

Abstract

Introduction and hypothesis: A vesico-vaginal fistula (VVF) is a fistulous tract that connects bladder and vagina, causing urine leakage via the vagina. In the developed world, iatrogenic postoperative VVF is the most common case. Classically, when treating a VVF via the abdominal route, an abdominal flap is mobilized and interposed between the bladder and the vagina.

Methods: In our video, we describe a robotic VVF repair technique with no omental flap interpositioning for a vaginal vault-located fistula.

Results: Duration of surgery was 95 min, estimated blood loss was <50 ml. The postoperative course was uneventful. At the 6-month follow-up, which included clinical and cystographic examinations, the patient had not experienced any recurrence.

Conclusion: In our opinion, a two-layered suturing technique using two semi-continuous sutures for vaginal closure and perpendicular interrupted stitches for bladder closure does not require omental flap mobilization, reducing operating time and possible complications related to accidental peritoneal injuries.

Keywords: Minimally invasive repair; Robotic; Vesico-vaginal fistula.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Video-Audio Media

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Omentum / transplantation
  • Operative Time
  • Robotic Surgical Procedures / methods*
  • Surgical Flaps*
  • Suture Techniques
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Urinary Bladder / surgery
  • Urologic Surgical Procedures / methods*
  • Vagina / surgery
  • Vesicovaginal Fistula / surgery*