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Published in: International Urogynecology Journal 9/2021

01-09-2021 | COVID-19 | Clinical Opinion

Pessaries and rectovaginal fistulae: consequences of delayed clinical follow-up in the Covid-19 pandemic

Authors: Jordan Mendelson, Bogdan Grigorescu, Catherine Quinn, George Lazarou

Published in: International Urogynecology Journal | Issue 9/2021

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Abstract

Introduction and hypothesis

While 2017 guidelines from The American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists called for pessary replacement every 3 to 4 months, a recent study in Obstetrics and Gynecology suggested that uninterrupted pessary use up to 6 months is not an independent risk factor for development of pessary-related complications.

Methods

Our recent experience throughout the Covid-19 pandemic highlights the potential ramifications of delayed clinical follow-up.

Results

During the Covid-19 pandemic, 3 of our patients developed rectovaginal fistulae secondary to Gellhorn pessary erosion in the context of delayed clinical follow-up. Our patients had previously attended routine appointments every 3 months without complications until missed appointments secondary to the pandemic led to fistulae formation.

Conclusion

We believe that delayed clinical follow-up of pessary management beyond 3 months due to the Covid-19 pandemic may lead to fistula complications in elderly women with Gellhorn pessaries.
Literature
Metadata
Title
Pessaries and rectovaginal fistulae: consequences of delayed clinical follow-up in the Covid-19 pandemic
Authors
Jordan Mendelson
Bogdan Grigorescu
Catherine Quinn
George Lazarou
Publication date
01-09-2021
Publisher
Springer International Publishing
Keyword
COVID-19
Published in
International Urogynecology Journal / Issue 9/2021
Print ISSN: 0937-3462
Electronic ISSN: 1433-3023
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00192-021-04926-4

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