A female ureogenital fistula (UGF) is a type of vesicovaginal fistula (VVF). The vaginal vault fistula is a fibrous tract that spans the bladder to the vagina, allowing continuous, involuntary urine leakage. Furthermore, these fistulas commonly profoundly affect a patient’s emotional well-being and physical health. Vesicovaginal fistulas form when the bladder bulges through the vaginal wall without the bladder’s consent. This can occur as a result of infections, injuries, or inflammation.

Fistula vesicovagial – what does it mean?

A fistula is an unwanted opening between two organs in the human body. The cause may be an infection, an injury, or inflammation. There are various locations where fistulas can develop.

During pregnancy, vesicovaginal fistulas form between the bladder and vaginal wall. This results in urine leaking into the urethra, sometimes lightly and sometimes steadily, depending on the size of the fistula. The condition is not only a severe medical condition, but it is also very distressing to women. Women are embarrassed by leakage and can even smell bad because of it.

Causes

Fistulas between the vesica and vagina often occur after surgery for bladder or vaginal problems. In addition, they may be associated with gynecological cancer, either directly or in reaction to radiation therapy or surgery. A bad urinary tract infection or a repeat infection can sometimes lead to fistulas, which is very rare.

  • Surgery on the abdomen.
  • Cancer of the uterus, cervix, or colon.
  • Treatment with radiation.
  • Diseases of the intestines, such as Crohn’s and diverticulitis.
  • If you have an infection (after an episiotomy or a tear after giving birth).
  • Injuries from trauma, such as car accidents.

Management options include:

  • Transabdominal lap-/open VVF repair
  • Vaginal VVF repair
  • VVF fulguration

Specific symptoms characterize vesicovaginal fistulas.

  • In the process of urinating, your urethra (the tube that drains urine from the bladder) releases gas.
  • Infections of the urinary tract (UTIs) that recur regularly.
  • Urine that resembles stool.
  • Smells of stool in the urine.
FAQ’s

A vesicovaginal fistula can only be repaired by surgery to close off the opening.

In most cases, your provider will perform a close physical examination of the area to learn more. Depending on what they find, your provider may order imaging tests.

A pelvic X-ray or computed tomography (CT scan) would be appropriate to diagnose the issue. A CT scan uses dye (also called contrast) to highlight the tissue in that body area, making the diagnosis easier.