Abstract

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the outcome of laparoscopic versus open VVF repair for vesico-vaginal fistula. Methods: A retrospectively reviewed the data of patients who underwent VVF repair in the Department of Urology, for the period of 2 years. There were forty patients who underwent laparoscopic VVF repair (group 1) and sixty who had open VVF repair (group 2) during this period. Results: 40 patients with recurrent VVF (group I), offered robot-assisted VVF repair were included in the present study. 60 patients (group II) matched in all possible parameters with those of recurrent VVF with previous open surgical repair, which were performed in the same time period, were taken as controls. All the patients in group I (robotic repair) were successfully managed (100% success rate) as compared with 93.34% in group II. Although success rate was higher for robotic repair, it was not statistically significant. Mean blood loss was significantly less (mean 89 mL) in group I than in group II (168 mL). The mean hospital stay was also significantly less in group I (mean 3.7 days) compared with group II (mean 5.5 days). None of the patients had complications in group I, whereas 6 patients in group II developed complications. None of the patients in either group developed incontinence. Conclusion: The present study showed that laparoscopic VVF repair results in reduced patient morbidity and shorter hospital stay without compromising the results. So, laparoscopic repair may be a more attractive treatment option for patients with post gynecology surgery VVF

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