Fistulas are tube-like passages that can form abnormally or be surgically created in the body, connecting organs or vessels. They can be caused by disease, medical treatments, or trauma, and treatment varies depending on the cause, location, size, and type.
In medicine, fistulas are tube-like passages that form abnormally or are surgically created in the body. A fistula can connect to organs or vessels, or it could connect the skin’s surface to an internal organ or vessel. They can form abnormally in the body due to a disease.
Generally, a fistula is described by its location in the body. For example, an arteriovenous (AV) fistula connects an artery and a vein. These are also a good example of a surgically created fistula intended for prolonged medical treatments, such as dialysis in patients with end-stage renal disease.
Fistulas can form anywhere on the body and there are three basic types, referred to as blind, complete, and incomplete. Blind fistulas have only one open end, while complete fistulas have openings externally and internally. Incomplete fistulas have an external opening but do not attach to anything.
The causes of fistulas are varied. Diseases can cause them, as can some medical treatments and trauma or injury to the body. Conditions such as Crohn’s disease and colitis are common inflammatory bowel diseases that cause anorectal fistulas. Trauma to the body, such as a prolonged and severe childbirth, which can cause obstetric fistulas, may also be culprits. Their formation following a severe birth occurs most often in parts of the world where there is little or no professional medical care.
Treatment of fistulas varies depending on the cause, location, size, and type. Some babies that are the result of an injury heal on their own over time. In some cases, if they’re caused by a disease or condition, such as an infection, treatment may involve antibiotics. If the fistula interferes with normal and necessary bodily functions, such as blood flow, surgery may be needed to repair the opening. Diagnosis varies with location and type. Surgically created passageways typically require a vascular surgeon and are closely monitored for healing and function.
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