The history of surgery of urinary fistula

Abstract

Existence of vesicovaginal fistula is known since ancient days and has been considered related to tedious labour. It continues to be a health care issue in those communities where obstetrician and midwifery care are scarce. Initial descriptions of surgical treatment started within the XV century, but the first detailed description of a curative technique was made in 1852. Urethral and perineal fistula are also known since ancient days related to the treatment of urethral stricture or bladder stones in males. The implementation of anaesthesia and antisepsis have been a great aid to the advancement of surgery and relief to urinary fistula patients all over the world.