Publication Scientifique

HEAL Africa score to predict failure of surgical repair of obstetric urethro-vaginal fistula in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

2024-09-16 | Télécharger
BACKGROUND :

A urethro-vaginal fistula (UVF) is an abnormal com- munication between the urethra and the vagina. It results in uncontrolled loss of urine through the vagina. Compared to vesicovaginal fistulas (VVF) or recto-vaginal fistulas (RVF), UVF is a rare entity in the literature limited to clinical cases or a small series of patients

The current study in the DRC reports a FSROUVF rate approaching a quarter of all treated patients. We identified FSROUVF predictors as the presence of fibrosis, patient having 2 or more fistulas, total urethral damage, fistula size greater than 3cm, the use of intravaginal indigenous prod- ucts, and postoperative infection. Collectively, these factors constitute the HEAL Africa score which may allow surgeons to develop individualized treatment plans and implement appropriate strategies to minimize the risk of FSROUVF. This study could be valuable for policy and strategies to address the problem of OUVF in the DRC, and in resource limited settings more generally. Improved surgical techniques and interdisciplinary approaches can also help improve surgical repair outcomes for OUVF, thereby improving the quality of life of patients with this debilitating condition.