This is the procedure of repairing abnormal connections that form between the urinary tract and surrounding tissues (such as the vagina, intestine, or skin) with closed (endoscopic/laparoscopic or minimally invasive) surgical methods.
These connections can cause urine to leak outside the normal pathway, leading to serious functional and quality-of-life problems.
Main Purpose
- To eliminate abnormal urine leakage
- To recreate the normal urinary pathway
- To close the pathological connection between surrounding tissues
- To prevent infection and skin damage
In Which Cases Is It Performed?
1. Trauma-related fistulas
- Surgical complications
- Damage that occurs after a difficult delivery
2. Infection and tissue damage
- Chronic inflammation
- Fistulas that develop after radiotherapy
3. Fistulas that develop after surgery
- After urological or gynecological operations
How Is It Performed?
It varies according to the method applied:
1. Endoscopic repair
- The fistula area is closed by entering through the urinary channel
2. Laparoscopic repair
- The repair is performed with small incisions accompanied by a camera
3. Open surgery (when necessary)
- Preferred in larger or complex fistulas
Advantages
1. It significantly improves quality of life
- Urine leaks are eliminated
2. Minimally invasive options are possible
- They provide faster recovery
3. It corrects the functional anatomy
- The normal urinary pathway is recreated
4. It reduces recurrent infections
- The risk of infection due to urine leakage decreases
Possible Risks
- Recurrence of the fistula
- Infection
- Tissue healing problems
- The need for a temporary urinary catheter
- Rarely, the need for additional surgery
The Post-Operative Process
- Temporary catheter use is usually needed
- Rest is recommended for tissue healing
- Urinary tract infection is monitored
- Regular check-ups are important
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it heal completely?
A successful repair is achieved in most patients, but there may be a risk of recurrence depending on the cause and size of the fistula.
How long is the recovery time?
Recovery is usually completed within a few weeks, but complete tissue repair may take longer.
Is catheter use necessary?
Yes, in most cases a temporary catheter is used to support the healing process.
Clinical Summary
Urinary fistula repair is a surgical procedure that allows the closure of abnormal connections that form between the urinary tract and surrounding organs. The aim is to eliminate urine leakage and restore normal anatomy and function.
