Skin flap vaginal augmentation helps prevent and cure post obstetric fistula repair urine leakage: a critical anatomical analysis.

Abstract

Our aim was to describe a new surgical method for prophylaxis/cure of post obstetric fistula repair leakage based on restoring vaginal elasticity with Singapore skin flap. The rationale for this operation was based on the integral theory: scarring removes elasticity required for independent function of oppositely acting urethral closure forces so they become 'tethered, forcibly opening the urethra when give the signal to close'. Skin graft restores elasticity and closure. Used prophylactically with Goh type 4 fistula (n = 45), 46% were dry against an expected 19%. In patients with successful fistula closure, still with severe leakage (n = 24), 71% were dry against an expected 26%. Singapore skin flap restores elasticity and prevents and treats incontinence in patients with successful obstetric fistula repair.