Results and Quality of Life

Urinary Fistula

If the fistulas are not operated, the probability of spontaneous healing is low, although sometimes they can close with the placement of a bladder catheter. However, the time required is not short, requiring several weeks.

Treatment ranges from conservative maneuvers such as bladder catheterization to the need for surgery. The type of surgery depends on the origin and size of the fistula and may require a vaginal, abdominal or laparoscopic approach. In cases of fistulas from the urinary tract to the digestive tract, a colostomy may be required, i.e. a bag to collect the feces.

In case of radiotherapy, fistulas usually have a more complex treatment. Radiotherapy is an effective treatment in multiple tumors and its complications are rare. However, on isolated occasions, especially in association with pelvic surgery, it increases the risk of development of fistulas from the urinary tract to the vagina or the gastrointestinal tract.

First of all, an evaluation by a urologist specializing in reconstructive urology should be performed. He or she will adequately evaluate the patient's condition in order to propose an individualized treatment.