Urogenital Injury Assessment in Obstetrics and Gynecology Procedures

Urological injuries, particularly involving the bladder and distal ureter, are critical concerns in gynecological and obstetric surgeries, such as hysterectomy and Caesarean section. These complications, while infrequent, can cause significant morbidity, mortality, and psychosocial issues. This study aims to determine the prevalence and types of urological injuries resulting from these procedures. Conducted at Alfalluja Teaching Hospital and Al-Karama General Hospital in Baghdad, Iraq, from September 2021 to January 2023, the prospective case series included 21 patients who experienced iatrogenic bladder and ureter injuries. Detailed patient evaluations were performed, documenting injury type and frequency. Results showed that 0.18% of 11,861 procedures resulted in urological injuries, predominantly from obstetric operations (80.95%), with bladder injuries more common than ureteral injuries. Emergency procedures and previous Caesarean sections were significant risk factors. These findings underscore the importance of discussing potential urinary tract injuries with patients undergoing such surgeries to improve outcomes through early identification and proper management.