Fistula

A fistula is an abnormal passage connecting two organs or an organ and the body surface. It can result from disease, injury, or surgery.

Anatomy: The study of the structures of living organisms and how they relate to one another. A fistula is defined by the anatomical structures it connects.
Enterocutaneous fistula: An abnormal connection between the intestine and the skin. This type can release intestinal contents through the abdominal wall.
Crohn's disease: A chronic inflammatory bowel disease that can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract. Transmural inflammation can create connections between bowel and other tissues.
Sinus tract: A channel that opens onto an epithelial surface but ends blindly within tissue. Unlike a fistula, a sinus tract does not connect two epithelial surfaces.
Epithelialization: The growth of epithelial cells across a wound or tissue surface. An epithelial lining can help maintain a mature fistula tract.
Anal fistula: An abnormal tract connecting the anal canal or rectum with skin near the anus. It is a common fistula type, often following an anal abscess.
Diverticulitis: Inflammation or infection of diverticula, small pouches that can form in the colon wall. Complicated diverticulitis can produce a connection between the colon and bladder.
Fissure: A narrow crack or split in tissue, often involving skin or a mucosal surface. A fissure is a tissue split, not an abnormal passage between structures.
Inflammation: A tissue response to injury or infection involving immune activity and changes in local blood flow. Persistent inflammation can damage tissue and sustain a fistula.
Arteriovenous fistula: An abnormal or surgically created connection between an artery and a vein. Its altered blood flow is used in dialysis access and can also cause complications.

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