Fistula


Fistula: An abnormal passageway in the body. The fistula may go from the body surface into a blindpouch or into an internal organ or go between two internal organs.

For a common example, an anal fistula has an opening in the skin near the anus that leads into a blind pouch or may connect through a tunnel with the rectal canal.

For a rare example, a gastropericardial fistula is a passageway between the stomach and the pericardial sac (that surrounds the heart).

There are numerous types of fistulas or (if you like the proper Latin plural) fistula. They are usually designated by the organs or parts they connect (anovaginal, bronchoesophageal, etc.).

Read Also:

  • Fistulize

    Fistulize: To form or make a fistula, an abnormal passageway. As, for example, fistulizing Crohn’s disease.

  • Five-day fever

    Five-day fever: Also called trench fever, this is a disease borne by body lice that was first recognized in the trenches of World War I, when it is estimated to have affected more than a million people in Russia and on the fronts in Europe. Trench fever was again a major problem in the military […]

  • Fixation, external

    Fixation, external: A procedure that stabilizes and joins the ends of fractured (broken) bones by a splint or cast. External fixation is as opposed to internal fixation in which the ends of the fractured bone are joined by mechanical devices such as metal plates, pins, rods, wires or screws.

  • Fixation, internal

    Fixation, internal: A surgical procedure that stabilizes and joins the ends of fractured (broken) bones by mechanical devices such as metal plates, pins, rods, wires or screws. Internal fixation is as opposed to external fixation of a fracture by a splint or cast.

  • Fixative

    Fixative: A medium such as a solution or spray that preserves specimens of tissues or cells. Most biopsies and specimens removed at surgery are fixed in a solution such as formalin (dilute formaldehyde) before further processing takes place. Other common ingredients used in fixatives are alcohol, mercuric chloride, potassium dichromate and sodium sulfate. “Fixative” is […]


Disclaimer: Fistula definition / meaning should not be considered complete, up to date, and is not intended to be used in place of a visit, consultation, or advice of a legal, medical, or any other professional. All content on this website is for informational purposes only.