Fistula (Fistula, Plural. Fistulae)

Fistula (Fistula, plural. Fistulae) is a pathological connection between two hollow organs or between a hollow organ and the outer surface of the body. Most fistulas form as a result of infection or injury. For example, after an abscess ruptures in the tissue surrounding the rectum, an anal fistula may appear (see Ishiorectal abscess), which connects the anal canal to the surface of the skin. (See also Urethrovaginal fistula.)

A number of fistulas can form as a result of malignant lesions or ulceration of organs: thus, colon carcinoma can spread to the wall of the stomach adjacent to this intestine, causing ulceration and the formation of a gastrointestinal fistula (gastrocolic fistula). Fistula formation can occur as a result of complications after surgery; for example, after surgery on the gallbladder, bile may continuously leak onto its surface through a wound, from which a biliary fistula develops.

Fistulas can be congenital (for example, tracheo-oesophageal fistula - a fistula between the trachea and the esophagus or rectovaginal fistula - a fistula between the rectum and vagina).

A fistula is a pathological anastomosis between the lumen of a hollow organ and the surface of the body. For example, when a fistula forms between the intestine and the patient’s skin, a hole may form through which the intestinal contents will leak out.

Fistulas can be either acquired or congenital. Congenital fistulas arise as a result of disturbances in the embryonic development of organs and tissues, as well as as a result of previous infectious diseases. Acquired fistulas are formed as a result of injuries, surgical interventions, inflammatory processes and other pathologies.

Treatment of fistulas can be surgical or conservative. In the first case, the fistula is excised, and then plastic surgery of the defect is performed. In the second case, if the fistula does not pose a threat to the patient’s health, it is left without treatment. However, it must be remembered that fistulas can lead to serious complications such as infections, abscesses and other diseases. Therefore, if you suspect a fistula, you should consult a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

Fistula (Fistula, Plural Fistulae): Pathological connections, their causes and types

Fistula (Fistula, plural. Fistulae) is a pathological connection between two hollow organs or between a hollow organ and the outer surface of the body. This condition may occur due to infection, injury, or other factors. Fistulas occur in different areas of the body and can have different causes and consequences.

One of the most common forms of fistula is an anal fistula, which is formed after the rupture of an abscess in the tissue surrounding the rectum. An anal fistula is a canal connecting the anal canal to the surface of the skin. This can lead to unpleasant symptoms such as pain, discomfort and discharge. Treatment for an anal fistula may require surgery.

Fistulas may also be associated with malignant tumors or organ ulcers. For example, colon carcinoma can spread to the adjacent wall of the stomach, causing ulceration and the formation of a gastrocolic fistula. This type of fistula requires significant medical attention and may require surgical removal of the tumor and reconstructive procedures.

Complications after surgery can also lead to the formation of fistulas. For example, after surgery on the gallbladder, bile may continuously leak onto its surface through a wound, from which a biliary fistula develops. This type of fistula requires medical intervention to prevent infection and restore normal functioning of the organ.

In rare cases, fistulas may be congenital. For example, a tracheo-oesophageal fistula is a fistula between the trachea and esophagus that can cause digestive and breathing problems in newborns. Another example is a rectovaginal fistula, a fistula between the rectum and vagina that can occur due to birth trauma or other abnormalities.

Treatment for fistulas depends on the type, cause, and symptoms. In many cases, surgery is required to remove the fistula and restore normal anatomy and function of the affected organs. However, in some cases conservative treatment methods, such as the use of anti-inflammatory drugs or antibiotics, may be required.

In conclusion, fistulas are pathological connections between organs or between an organ and the outer surface of the body. They can occur due to infection, trauma, malignancy, or congenital abnormalities. Treatment of fistulas usually requires medical intervention, and the choice of method depends on the individual case. Early consultation with a doctor and timely treatment will help prevent complications and achieve the best result.