Martius flap and anterior vaginal wall sling for correction of urethrovaginal fistula (UVF) associated with stress urinary incontinence (SUI) after vaginal delivery

Objective To determine the efficacy, safety and urodynamic effects of the Martius flap and the anterior vaginal wall sling in treating post-birth trauma in the form of urethra-vaginal fistula (UVF) associated with stress urinary incontinence (SUI). Patients and methods Between July 2006 and August 2011, 19 patients underwent repair of UVF by interposition of a Martius flap and correction of associated SUI by a modified anterior vaginal wall sling. The procedure was carried out 3–17 (mean 7) months after post-birth trauma. Pre-operative evaluation consisted of history, voiding diary, physical examination, routine laboratory work-up, abdominopelvic ultrasonography, intravenous urography (IVU), and cystourethrography. The patients were followed up for a mean of 34 months. Follow-up included history, physical examination, urine analysis and pelvic ultrasonography for the assessment of residual urine. Urodynamic evaluation was performed at 3 months post-operatively. Results None of the patients developed recurrence of UVF. SUI was corrected in 16 patients (84%). In the post-operative period, 3 patients (16%) complained of an overactive bladder (OAB) with urodynamic detrusor overactivity (DO) and an obstructed flow. These problems were managed successfully using anticholinergics and urethral dilation. Three patients (16%) complained of mild SUI, but refused further management. Within 3 years following the intervention, 3 patients complained of a recurrence of SUI which was managed successfully by a rectus sheath sling. Conclusions Patients with a post-birth trauma in the form of UVF should be examined intra-operatively for the presence of associated SUI following correction of UVF. The use of the Martius flap and anterior vaginal wall sling in treating such patients is safe, efficient and reproducible. An anterior vaginal wall sling should be avoided in distal UVF to avoid recurrence of SUI.