Cervical cancer in the Russian Federation and the risks of vaginal fistula

Abstract

This review aims to provide up-to-date information on the factors associated with an increased risk of vaginal fistula in women with cervical cancer, as well as on methods of their prevention and treatment. It includes data on various types of vaginal fistulas in cervical cancer patients and risk factors for their development, according to foreign and Russian research articles published over the last 20 years. Cervical cancer is one of the most challenging oncological diseases in the Russian Federation, because it is detected at stage III–IV in more than 30 % of women. Such a high incidence of cervical cancer and the need for radiotherapy determine high risk of fistulas, which significantly impairs the quality of life. Thus, identification of factors associated with vaginal fistulas, as well as methods of their prevention and treatment remains a highly relevant task for the Russian healthcare system.