Intraoperative injuries of the urinary tract

Morbidity related to injuries of the urinary tract during gynecologic surgeries has remained relatively low despite decades of operating in close proximity to the bladder, ureters, and urethra. This is a result of gynecologic surgeons having a constant awareness of the anatomy with which they work and maintaining the knowledge and skills required to quickly repair such injuries. As a result of experience and excellent training, the surgeon is often able to avoid such mishaps. However, with time, types of surgery performed, methods of repair of complications and standards for timing of repairs can change resulting in a necessity to occasionally review such topics and anatomy. Most recently, a surge in minimally invasive surgery has introduced with its many benefits, new complications. This publication provides a detailed review of the anatomy of the urinary tract, preventive measures, risk factors and types of injuries that occur to the urinary tract during gynecological surgery. In addition, the authors discuss new gynecologic surgeries, complications resulting from them and methods for repair. Finally, the publication reviews recent trends in repair of the better-known injuries.