AV fistula: what is it?

An atrioventricular fistula is an abnormal connection between a vein and an artery that can be created surgically for kidney dialysis patients. It can also occur due to congenital anomalies, arterial disease, or injuries. The surgically created fistula can be used for several years without replacement and is connected to the dialysis machine. It typically […]

What’s a tracheoesophageal fistula?

A tracheoesophageal fistula is a serious medical problem where the esophagus and windpipe are connected, usually due to a congenital error. It can cause complications such as pneumonia and malnutrition. Surgery is required to repair the connection, and financial assistance programs are available for those who cannot afford it. A tracheoesophageal fistula is a connection […]

What’s duodenal fistula?

A duodenal fistula is an abnormal opening between the duodenum and another organ or the skin, causing leaks and potential life-threatening effects. Surgery is the best treatment option, and antibiotic treatment and fluid and electrolyte replacement may also be used. A fistula is an abnormal opening between two parts of the body. The duodenum is […]

What’s an enterocutaneous fistula?

Enterocutaneous fistula is an abnormal connection between the intestine and skin, caused by surgery, injury, or illness. Symptoms include fever, abdominal tenderness, and drainage of intestinal matter. Treatment involves draining the wound, antibiotics, and surgery if necessary. The fatality rate is 5-20%. An enterocutaneous fistula is an abnormal connection between the large or small intestine […]

What’s a vaginal fistula?

Vaginal fistulas are holes or tears in the vaginal wall that can lead to uncontrollable leakage of waste from the body. They are often caused by difficult childbirth and are more common in poor communities. There are four types of vaginal fistulas, and surgery is usually required for treatment. A vaginal fistula, also sometimes known […]

What’s a vesicovaginal fistula?

Vesicovaginal fistula (VVF) is a condition where urine passes through the vagina due to an abnormal connection between the bladder and vagina. It can be caused by childbirth, pelvic surgery, radiation therapy, or female genital mutilation. Symptoms include urinary incontinence, abdominal expansion, and vulva inflammation. It can be treated with surgery and a Foley catheter […]

Pancreatic fistula: what is it?

Pancreatic fistula is an abnormal connection between the pancreas and another organ or space caused by leakage of pancreatic enzymes. It is usually associated with pancreatitis and treated with food restriction, somatostatin analogues, and surgery. There are two types: external and internal. Diagnosis is made by analysis of fluid and CT scans, and treatment includes […]

Carotid-cavernous fistula: what is it?

Carotid-cavernous fistula is a vascular disease in the skull that causes blood to pool in the eye, leading to tenderness, redness, swelling, and possible blindness. It can be caused by traumatic events or natural anatomical abnormalities and is often misdiagnosed. Early detection and treatment are crucial for successful reversal of damage to the arteries. A […]

What’s a bladder fistula?

Bladder fistulas are abnormal connections between the bladder and other organs or the skin, causing urine leakage and possible infection. They can be caused by injury, disease, or radiation and are usually treated with surgery. A bladder fistula is a patchy connection that exists between a person’s bladder and another organ in their body or […]

What’s a ureteral fistula?

A ureteral fistula is an abnormal connection between the ureter and another organ or structure. It can cause symptoms such as pain, fever, and abnormal passage of blood, urine, or stool. Treatment usually involves surgical repair and antibiotics. A ureteral fistula is an abnormal adhesion of a body structure to a ureter, which is the […]

What’s an AV fistula?

Arteriovenous fistula is a condition where blood skips the capillary and goes directly to the vein. It can be congenital or acquired, and symptoms vary depending on the location and size of the fistula. Diagnosis is done through physical exams and imaging tests, and treatment depends on the severity of the condition. Arteriovenous (AV) fistula […]

What’s an anal fistula?

An anorectal fistula is an abnormal condition where a person develops a passageway from their anus to the skin surface surrounding the anus or other pelvic organs. It can be caused by conditions such as Crohn’s disease, diverticulitis, or tuberculosis, and can be treated with surgical or nonsurgical options. Pilonidal cysts share some symptoms but […]

Skip to content