FIGO good practice recommendations to standardize the assessment of outcomes following vesicovaginal fistula surgery

Abstract

Obstetric fistula is a debilitating childbirth injury causing immense suffering for women and girls with the condition. The majority of fistulas can be successfully treated with a surgical repair, performed by a competent surgeon who has undergone specialist training and who works with a holistic fistula care team. As well as surgical repair, a critical component of fistula treatment is meticulous postoperative assessment to accurately determine surgical outcomes so that further treatment and support can be provided as required, and the risk substantially reduced of any patient being discharged with associated ongoing problems, such as urinary retention or residual/ongoing incontinence. Based on the opinions of experts in the field, these good practice recommendations provide a practical and standardized protocol for the correct assessment of surgical outcomes following vesicovaginal fistula surgery and appropriate subsequent management.