
2025-10-13T10:19:24
A fistula is an abnormal tunnel-like connection between two organs, vessels, or between an organ and the skin. It usually forms due to infection, injury, surgery, or diseases like Crohn’s disease or tuberculosis. Common Types of Fistula: Anal fistula – connects the anal canal to the skin near the anus (most common). Arteriovenous fistula – abnormal connection between an artery and a vein. Enterocutaneous fistula – connection between the intestine and the skin. Vesicovaginal fistula – between bladder and vagina (causing urine leakage). Rectovaginal fistula – between rectum and vagina. Causes: Chronic infection or abscess Surgery or trauma Inflammatory bowel disease (like Crohn’s disease) Tuberculosis or cancer in rare cases Symptoms (for anal fistula, the most common type): Pain, swelling, or redness around anus Pus or blood discharge Recurrent abscess formation Irritation or itching around anus Treatment: Medications (for infection and inflammation) Surgery is the main treatment: Fistulotomy (cutting open the tract to heal) Seton placement (a thread left in the fistula to keep it open and drain gradually) Advancement flap surgery (closing the internal opening with tissue flap) LIFT procedure (ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract) Laser/Glue techniques (minimally invasive options) 👉 If untreated, fistula often keeps recurring and causes repeated infection, so medical/surgical care is usually necessary.