The SPD after Brandt: Problems of integration in a changing Urban society
Since 1982, the electoral fortunes of the SPD have followed a downward trend, accompanied by a pervasive malaise and uncertainty regarding coalitions with the Greens. The strategic choice before the SPD is mirrored by the analogous dilemma of the CDU/CSU with regard to the FDP. The problems of integrating the ‘two or more SPDs’ in a rapidly changing urban society are aggravated by the sectarian New Left in the big cities. Only a new consensus based on widely popular themes can lead the SPD back into power.
The ambivalence of the SPD and the end of its Ostpolitik
The Social Democratic Party of Germany (SPD) has been struggling over the last few years to regain its unity and electoral support. However, since reunification, the party has been declining and splintering as never before. The oldest party in Germany is becoming painfully aware that its present trials and tribulations can be directly linked to its ambivalent position immediately prior to and following the dramatic events of 1989 and 1990. This article addresses the SPD‐SED relationship, one of the most heated topics amongst academics and politicians both within and outside the SPD. It also attempts to account for the Social Democratic ambivalence surrounding the fall of the GDR and the reunification of Germany. Above all, this work highlights the struggle of the SPD coming to terms with the end of its Ostpolitik.
Transvesicoscopic Bipolar Sealing of Vesicovaginal Fistula
Abstract Introduction: Vesicovaginal fistula (VVF) is a problem that physically and psychologically debilitates the patient. Options for treatment of VVF include transabdominal, transvaginal, transvesical, laparoscopic, and robotic repair or minimally invasive methods such as fulguration. We describe a novel minimally invasive technique: transvesicoscopic bipolar sealing of the vesicovaginal fistula (TBSF). Case Presentation: We carried out the transvesicoscopic sealing of VVF with 5 mm of diameter on a 46-year-old woman, who had a failed conservative treatment with a Foley catheter placement. The patient was informed about the modified surgical procedure before operation. The fistula tract was sealed by using an electrothermal bipolar vessel sealer through a 5-mm transvesical ports. The patient was discharged on the first postoperative day and was on anticholinergic medications after the operation. The patient remained dry after the removal of the catheter at the third postoperative week. Conclusion: In select cases of VVF, TBSF may be effectively used for closure of the fistula tract.