Iatrogenic Fistula

Sometimes genital fistula can be caused unintentionally by a health care provider. This type of injury is called iatrogenic fistula.  For instance, during a cesarean section, it is possible that the bladder is accidentally cut, resulting in a hole or abnormal opening through which urine leaks. 

Iatrogenic fistula can also occur by accident during surgeries unrelated to childbirth. In many of the countries where we work, approximately 10-15% of the overall patient caseload is due to iatrogenic causes. Training surgeons and other health care staff in emergency obstetric care and other surgical skills is essential to preventing new cases of iatrogenic fistula.