The effect of perinatal audit depends on the ability to close the audit loop; without effectively implementing the solutions to the problems identified, audit alone cannot improve quality of care.
Objective
To determine predictors of fistula repair outcomes 3 months postsurgery.
Methods
We conducted a multicountry prospective cohort study between 2007 and 2010. Outcomes, measured 3 months postsurgery, included fistula closure, and residual incontinence in women with a closed fistula. Potential predictors included patient and fistula characteristics, and context of repair. Multivariable generalized estimating equation models were used to generate adjusted risk ratios (ARR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI).
Results
Women who returned for follow-up 3 month postsurgery were included in predictors of closure analyses (n=1,274). Small bladder size (ARR 1.57; 95% CI 1.39–1.79), prior repair (ARR 1.40; 95% CI 1.11–1.76), severe scarring (ARR 1.56; 95% CI 1.20–2.04), partial urethral involvement (ARR 1.36; 95% CI 1.11–1.66), and complete urethral destruction/circumferential defect (ARR 1.72; 95% CI 1.33–2.23) predicted failed fistula closure. Women with a closed fistula at 3 month follow-up were included in predictors of residual incontinence analyses (n=1041). Prior repair (ARR 1.37; 95% CI 1.13–1.65), severe scarring (ARR 1.35; 95% CI 1.10–1.67), partial urethral involvement (ARR 1.78; 95% CI 1.27–2.48), and complete urethral destruction or circumferential defect (ARR 2.06; 95% CI 1.51–2.81) were significantly associated with residual incontinence.
Conclusions
The prognosis for genital fistula closure is related to preoperative bladder size, previous repair, vaginal scarring, and urethral involvement.
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