What is a Vesico Vaginal Fistula Surgery Complication?

Hysterectomy surgical procedures are typically safe and effective at resolving many gynecological complications that women face. For some women, however, there is a risk for developing complications in the weeks after a hysterectomy, requiring additional surgical needs. If you are about to undergo any form of hysterectomy procedure, it is important to become familiar with the risks for fistula and how you can identify a vesico vaginal fistula complication.

A "fistula" is a medical term used to identify that abnormal connection, or communication, between two tissues or organs. In women who undergo any type of pelvic or abdominal surgery, fistula development is not uncommon among the uterus, bladder, and vaginal wall. For women who undergo hysterectomy procedure, the development of a vesico vaginal fistula can be painful and often lead to complications involving the urinary tract system.

After a hysterectomy, when a vesico vaginal fistula develops, a woman may experience symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection causing frequent urination as a first sign of trouble. However, in the weeks after hysterectomy, when healing should be taking place, a fistula may connect the vaginal wall and bladder, resulting in urinary incontinence and a breakdown of the urological system. When confirmed, surgery to correct or repair the fistula is often necessary.

While some degree of pain and discomfort is expected in the weeks after your hysterectomy surgery, many women find they need additional surgery to repair the complications that arise. Understanding this risk, it is important to discuss the issues with your surgeon prior to having the hysterectomy performed so as to ensure you are not only physically and emotionally ready for these risks, but also prepared for any additional financial burden they may impose.

While most women recover fully from a hysterectomy surgery, without any evidence of fistula development, it is still a risk that should be addressed and monitored. If, in the weeks after your surgery, you find that your ability to urinate normally may be of concern, be sure to seek out medical treatment immediately.

Sources: Practical Obstetric Fistula Surgery, by Brian Hancock