Analysis of a pilot program to implement physical therapy for women with gynecologic fistula in the Democratic Republic of Congo

Abstract

Pelvic floor physical therapy could have significant results in women with gynecologic fistula, may be an important adjunctive treatment in comprehensive fistula care, and warrants further investigation.

Rehabilitation and reintegration programming adjunct to female genital fistula surgery: A systematic scoping review

“…Outcomes from two interventions combining health education and physiotherapy were not directly comparable . At hospital discharge, Castille et al.…”

“…Two studies tested a combined health education and physiotherapy program . In Benin, Castille et al .…”

“…employed physiotherapist‐led didactic sessions to assist women in activity modification including perineal contractions, abdominal hypopressive exercise, and behavioral instruction. In DRC, Keyser et al . sought to increase pelvic floor strength and prevent postsurgical complications through physical therapy starting 14 days after surgery.…”

“…Challenges to program implementation largely focused on sustainability factors such as continuing support and education in intervention modality (i.e. physical therapy), challenges to long‐term follow‐up, high staff turnover, and funding …”

Obstetric fistula: The role of physiotherapy: A report from the Physiotherapy Committee of the International Continence Society

“…Research has indicated that there can be an improved outcome of surgery both in terms of successful closure of a vesicovaginal fistula and reduced risk of persistent urinary incontinence if women are taught a correct pelvic floor muscle (PFM) contraction and advised to practice pelvic floor muscle exercises (PFME). Other researchers have recommended pre‐operative assessment although most of their study population were first seen following fistula repair.…”