Pattern of Presentation and Management of Vesico-Vaginal Fistula at Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital

Vesico-vaginal fistula (VVF) remains a debilitating consequence of prolonged obstructed labour in northern Nigeria, disproportionately affecting young, poorly educated women in rural communities. This study describes the sociodemographic profile, pattern of presentation, and surgical management of VVF patients at Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH), Zaria, Kaduna State, North West Nigeria, from 2020 to 2023. A retrospective case series reviewed 130 confirmed VVF cases. Variables analyzed included patient age, parity, educational level, duration of fistula, fistula classification (Goh classification), operative approach, and closure rates at primary repair. Descriptive statistics were applied. Obstetric VVF accounted for 92% of cases, with a mean patient age of 19.4 years. The majority of patients were rural dwellers with no formal education. Simple fistulas constituted 65% of cases and achieved a closure rate of 84% at first attempt. Complex fistulas had significantly lower first-attempt closure rates (51%). The study advocates for comprehensive VVF prevention through improved antenatal and obstetric care, investment in fistula repair centers, and community reintegration programs for survivors in North West Nigeria. Keywords: vesico-vaginal fistula, obstetric fistula, VVF repair, Zaria, Nigeria