Laser welding of vesicovaginal fistula--outcome analysis and long-term outcome: single-centre experience.

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS: The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of laser welding of vesicovaginal fistula (VVF) at our centre.

METHODS

Between January 1, 2001 and January 3, 2010, eight patients underwent laser welding of vesicovaginal fistula. The mean age was 44 years (35-55). The VVF were primary (failing to heal following conservative management) in five and secondary (recurring following primary repair) in three cases. The mean fistula size was 3 mm (range, 2-4). Neodymium yttrium aluminium garnet (YAG) laser was used for the initial case, and in the remaining seven cases, holmium YAG laser was used for circumferential welding of the fistula. Following the procedure, a catheter was kept for 3 weeks. The mean hospitalisation period was 1 day. The mean follow-up is 47 months (2-110).

RESULTS

Seven patients were dry after catheter removal. In one patient, procedure was abandoned due to bleeding.

CONCLUSIONS

Laser welding of VVF is a simple, safe and efficacious procedure in a select group of patients.