Novel use of the rectus abdominus muscle flap for vaginal reconstruction
in complex obstetric fistula repair: a case series
Abstract
Globally, obstetric fistula is a tragic outcome following obstructed
labor. Failure of complex repairs and post-operative incontinence are
common. We describe an innovative surgical technique incorporating the
rectus abdominis muscle flap at the time of fistula repair. We report
outcomes from six patients at the Fistula Care Center in Lilongwe,
Malawi in October 2023. At three months following discharge, five
patients (80.0%) were continent; one patient was unable to follow-up
but was continent at a one-month phone follow-up. There were no major
complications. The rectus abdominis muscle flap may be considered in
challenging obstetric fistula repairs.