Z Urology in South Florida

Bladder Fistula Diagnosis and Care

The Z Urology team specializes in diagnosing and treating bladder fistulas with compassion and cutting-edge technologies. Our board-certified urologists are here to help you regain optimal urinary function and improve your quality of life.

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What is a Bladder Fistula?

A bladder fistula is an abnormal connection between the bladder and another organ or body surface (such as the bowel or vagina). The abnormal connection causes urine to leak into areas where it does not belong, leading to potential complications.

This condition can lead to:

Urinary leakage (incontinence)
Recurrent infections
Discomfort and pain
Significant impact on quality of life

Types of Bladder Fistulas

Several types of bladder fistulas can cause varying symptoms and reactions, depending on the location and size of the fistula. Common symptoms include urinary incontinence, recurrent urinary tract infections, and blood in the urine (hematuria).

Visit an expert at Z Urology for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of this sensitive condition.

Vesicovaginal Fistula

This is the most common type of bladder fistula. It connects the bladder to the vagina. A vesicovaginal fistula can result in persistent urinary leakage through the vagina.

Vesicointestinal Fistula

A vesicointestinal fistula is the abnormal connection of the bladder to the bowel. It can cause bowel issues and pneumaturia, which is when gas and air bubbles pass in urine.

Cutaneous Fistula

A cutaneous fistula is the abnormal connection between the bladder and the skin’s surface. It can cause urine leakage through the skin, which increases the risk of infection and swelling.

What Causes a Fistula in the Bladder?

Bladder fistulas can be caused by several urinary and overall health factors.

Inflammatory Conditions: Certain chronic conditions can increase the risk of fistulas. Common examples are Crohn’s disease (inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract) and radiation cystitis (inflammation resulting from cancer radiation treatment).
Complications in Surgery: Previous bladder or other pelvic surgeries may cause weakening or injury to surrounding tissues, which can lead to bladder fistulas.
Traumatic Injury: Trauma or injuryto the pelvic area can increase the risks of bladder fistulas. Penetrative injuries or pelvic fractures can harm the bladder, causing fistulas to form.

Visit an expert at Z Urology for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of this sensitive condition.

Diagnosis and Treatment for Bladder Fistulas

Expert urologists use advanced diagnostic screenings to accurately identify and assess bladder fistulas. Diagnosis typically involves:

Medical review of the patient
Physical examinations
Cystoscopy
CT scans and MRI

Treatments also vary from patient to patient, depending on the type of fistula. At Z Urology, innovative treatments include:

Conservative management: Urinary catheterization, medications, and nutritional support.
Surgery: Robotic-assisted surgical repair, tissue grafting, or flap reconstruction are often necessary for bladder fistulas.
Urinary Diversion: For complex cases where the fistula cannot be surgically repaired, a surgeon may conduct a urinary diversion which reroutes the flow of urine away from the bladder to eliminate urine in a new pathway. Urinary diversions can be temporary or permanent.

Reach out to bladder experts at Z Urology to determine the best treatment for bladder fistulas.

Contact Z Urology

Patient Feedback for Z Urology

Our patients are the reason we strive for exceptional urological care and treatment! Here’s what some of our South Florida patients are saying about their experience at our clinics.

I have recommended many people to this office and each one has thanked me. On a scale of 1 to 5 (5 being the best), Dr. Z and his staff are a 12.
– Alex S.
The wait was not long. I was greeted by a friendly nurse who took my sonogram of the kidneys and bladder. The doctor came in after a short time. Dr. Hollowell has a gentle voice and great bedside manner. He is very informative about my issues and I left feeling relieved and hopeful for future visits. The receptionists were also helpful and friendly. I recommend this office. Just wish it was closer to home.
– Allison T.
"I found Doctor Varghese through my insurance provider network and read reviews in Healthgrades. Dr. Varghese is terrific. She explains things so they are easy to understand. I feel she is on top of several medical problems I’m having. I had a cystoscopy and was offered nitric oxide (mild gas). It was perfect. I have had the procedure in the past but it was the most uncomfortable feeling I ever experienced. Not this time. Doctor Varghese is an excellent listener and remembers what I tell her from the previous visits.

Let me sum up my feelings about being under Dr. Varghese's care. I have new health insurance now so I can see doctors near my home, but instead I’ll continue to drive 75 miles each way to and from Pompano Beach to Stuart, FL [to see her].”
– Jeffery P.
“I've been coming here for cancer for 10 years and I've had nothing but good visits every time. Staff is friendly and the doctors and PA'S are great. Dr. Z takes the time to ask questions and explain everything. He is amazing.”

– Bill S.
“El Dr. Pedro Espino Grosso es un médico especialista en Urología es también especialista en entender, comprender y atender la preocupación de su paciente. Gracias por su profesionalismo como para todo el staff y las enfermeras por su amable y compasivo trato. Por favor no cambien!”
– Ana L.
I have new health insurance now so I can see doctors near my home, but instead, I’ll continue to drive 75 miles each way to and from Pompano Beach to Stuart, FL to visit Z Urology!
– Jeffery P.
“Dr. Mini Varghese of Z Urology is without a doubt the best Urologist in South Florida. She not only takes care of my father but now she's taking care of all my needs too. The team she has behind her at Z Urology is amazing, they go up and beyond their call of duty. A big shoutout to Z Urology in Pompano Beach, FL, thanks for keeping the pipes flowing...you gals are the Best!!!! Thanks Dr. Varghese.”
– Brent S.
“Dr. Brar was awesome! He was very thorough with everything to ensure we got to the bottom of my issue! I felt like he cared and listened. I will be going back. The office was busy and some people were waiting a while but I was seen fairly quickly, I did fill out all the paperwork ahead of time so not sure if that helped! The person who helped me at the front desk was great and helped me with all my questions.”
– Britney C.
Everyone seemed nice, friendly and welcoming. I was also impressed with the examination and the way the staff treated me. Dr. Mike took the time with me to listen and advise me as to what treatment plan might be needed.
– Jimmy Z.
Great specialist, hard to find a more personable and efficient medical office anywhere else. I was welcome from the moment I came in, everyone was very friendly and all my questions and needs were expertly attended to. Never been to a urologist so this was new to me, but I definitely felt comfortable and heard. It was a drive from neighboring Miami but well worth it. Highly recommend. Thanks, Dr. Z!
– Jose T.
Thank you Dr. Michael Zahalsky for the surgery, you changed my life completely. I'm so happy, now no more pain and I'm feeling better than ever, thanks again for the great staff in your office. Very professional. Felt like family.
– Frank C.
They are very friendly. My surgeon went through the same procedure and read my mind of all my concerns. He reassured me everything would be okay and life would go on.
– Jeremy C.
Three words: Kind, Caring and Compassionate! This office is the best of the best. The front desk employees are super friendly and the doctors are professional and spoke to me in a down-to-earth & making it easier for me to understand what was going on. I am able to make informed decisions with the material that was provided to me.
– A.D.Z.
I had a great first visit with Dr. Z and his staff. I was seen within a reasonable amount of time. Dr. Z was personable and, after hearing my history and doing a targeted physical exam, directed his staff to perform ultrasound and bladder testing which was done efficiently and with discretion. Dr. Z then came in and spent a good amount of time explaining a clinical treatment plan. I left feeling I was in the hands of a total professional office from the top down.
– Harvey A.
Z urology is the best and I have to say Dr. Zahalsky is extremely knowledgeable and such a humble and pleasant human being. I always feel welcome at Z Urology.
– Kimaro W.

In Network with Most Insurance Plans

Our clinic accepts most major insurance plans and offers flexible financing options to ensure you receive the care you need. Our team will work with you to maximize your benefits and minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Questions about insurance coverage?

Contact our office at (954) 714-8200. Additionally, we encourage you to call your insurance provider to confirm what your coverage includes.

Schedule an Appointment for Bladder Fistula Care

Don't let a bladder fistula negatively impact your health—or your life. Contact Z Urology today to schedule a consultation with our team of specialists and discover how we can help you regain healthy urinary function.

Schedule an Appointment
or Call (954) 714-8200