title: Laparoscopic vesicovaginal fistula repair.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Vesicovaginal fistulas are uncommon and remain a surgical challenge. Abdominal hysterectomy remains their main cause. We present our experience in laparoscopic  repair of vesicovaginal fistula.
  
  
  METHODS
  Between January 2006 and January 2008, 8 laparoscopic transvesical procedures for VVF repair were performed at our institution (O'Connor technique).  For each case  we analyzed demographic and surgical variables as well as the outcome. Surgical technique is also described.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Average patient age was 45 years. All patients had past history of hysterectomy and subsequent history of urine leak through vagina, with a mean evolution time of  22 months. The average operative time was 150 minutes and the mean hospital stay 4.7 days. All patients evolved without complications except one who had urinary tract  infection (Pseudomonas aeruginosa) that was treated with antibiotics. After a mean follow up of 32 months, there were no recurrences.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  In experienced hands, transvesical transabdominal laparoscopic vesicovaginal fistula repair is a feasible and safe procedure, preserving all the advantages of  minimally invasive surgery.
authors.affiliation: Urology Department, Clínica Indisa, Av. Apoquindo 3990, Las Condes, Santiago, Chile.
authors.forename: Natalia Miranda
authors.initials: NM
authors.lastname: Utrera
authors.forename: Alejandro
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Foneron
authors.forename: Octavio A
authors.initials: OA
authors.lastname: Castillo
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D013509:Gynecologic Surgical Procedures / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D007044:Hysterectomy; D010535:Laparoscopy / Q000379:methods*; D008875:Middle Aged; D013537:Sutures; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014546:Urinary Catheterization; D014719:Vesicovaginal Fistula / Q000601:surgery*