Urogenital fistulas

The urogenital fistula is a devastating condition due to an abnormal connection between the urinary and genital tracts. Urogenital fistulas are known to have occurred since prehistoric times, although documented surgical repair was not attempted until the mid-17th century. Subsequent to this description, many refinements in surgical technique have been reported. Consequently, urogenital fistulas are associated with a minimal risk of mortality. Despite this fact, they continue to be associated with related morbidity and, more importantly, effect a huge patient and societal burden as a result of impact on quality of life and medical costs.