Vesicovaginal Fistula

A vesicovaginal fistula is an abnormal connection between the bladder and vagina that results in urine leakage into the vagina.

Diagnosis is made by history and physical exam. Some patients with vesicovaginal fistula complain of large amounts of urine leakage through the vagina. In these patients, diagnosis could be made by physical exam alone. However, with small fistulas, diagnosis could be challenging, and cystoscopy may be required to directly visualize the defect in the bladder.

Treatment depends of the cause and the location of the fistula. Most vesicovaginal fistulas occur following pelvic surgery and can be managed using the minimally invasive da Vinci robot.