Repair of Vesico-Vaginal Fistula Side Effects and Warnings

Possible Complications

Complications are rare. But, no procedure is completely free of risk. If you are planning to have vesico-vaginal fistula repair, your doctor will review a list of possible complications, which may include:

• Urinary tract infection or other infections

• Irritation or inflammation of the vulva (the opening of the vagina)

• Injury to bladder, vagina, or urethra (the tube that carries urine outside of the body from the bladder)

• Bleeding

• Adverse reaction to anesthesia (eg, low blood pressure, wheezing)

Factors that may increase the risk of complications include:

• Smoking

• Obesity

• Taking blood-thinning medicines

• Fistula that is large or complex

• Already having an infection or chronic inflammation

Discuss these risks with your doctor before the procedure.

Call Your Doctor

After you leave the hospital, contact your doctor if any of the following occurs:

• Increasing pressure or pain

• Redness, soreness, bleeding, or discharge at or around the incision site

• Changes in frequency, odor, appearance, or amount of urine

• Unable to urinate

• Signs of infection, including fever or chills

• Excess blood in urine (Small amounts are normal.)

If you think you have an emergency, CALL 911.