Impact of International Vesicovaginal Fistula Experience on URPS Fellows

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

5-2025

Publication Title

Journal of Urology

Abstract

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: As a part a urogynecology and reconstructive pelvic surgery (URPS) fellowship, trainees are offered the opportunity to attend a vesicovaginal fistula (VVF) camp in either Uganda or Angola. We sought to identify the impact an intensive, international VVF experience has on URPS fellowship training. METHODS: Current and former URPS fellows from a single institution who attended an international VVF camp were surveyed anonymously. We inquired about their confidence in their ability to perform complex VVF repairs before and after their international experience. They were also asked whether their experience impacted their current practice. RESULTS: A total of six prior fellows attended international VVF trips, and six responded to anonymous survey for a 100% response rate. Five fellows attended in their second year of fellowship, and one in their first. Three fellows (50%) had previous experience with overseas medical missions, while three did not. Fellows reported the VVF encountered were of maximum complexity. After the international experience, mean fellow comfort in the evaluation and operative planning of VVF increased from 3.0 to 4.7, with 5 being at the level of an attending surgeon. Fellow-reported surgical skill level during VVF procedures increased from 2.3 to 4, with 5 being the maximum. Fellow confidence in performing complex vaginal reconstructive procedures increased from 2.3 to 4.3, with 5 being maximum confidence (fig 1). All fellows (100%) reported the international VVF camp experience was an important component of their training, and that the skills they learned have been implemented in their own practice. CONCLUSIONS: International VVF experience presents URPS fellows with exposure to VVF with maximum complexity. This exposure can afford trainees with operative skills they can utilize in their future practices.

Volume

213

Issue

5S

First Page

e1105

Last Page

e1105

Comments

American Urological Association Annual Meeting, April 26-29, 2025, Las Vegas, NV

DOI

10.1097/01.JU.0001110104.16850.57.10

Link to Full Text

Share

COinS