Transvaginal repair of a urethrovaginal fistula using the Latzko technique with a bulbocavernosus (Martius) flap

Introduction and hypothesis

Urethrovaginal fistula is a rare disorder that may occur following sling procedures for stress urinary incontinence, excision of a urethral diverticulum, anterior vaginal wall repair, radiation therapy, and prolonged indwelling urethral catheter. The most common clinical manifestation is continuous urinary leakage through the vagina, aggravated by an increase in the intra-abdominal pressure. Appropriate management, including timing of the surgical intervention and the preferred technique, remains controversial.

Methods

This video presentation describes the transvaginal repair of a urethrovaginal fistula using the Latzko technique and a bulbocavernosus (Martius) flap.

Results

The patient’s postoperative course was uneventful. At her follow-up visit 2 months later, she was free of urinary leakage, and a pelvic examination revealed excellent healing, with complete closure of the fistula.

Conclusions

Transvaginal repair using the Latzko technique with a vascular bulbocavernosus (Martius) flap is an effective and safe mode of treatment.