Digestive system fistulas refer to abnormal connections or passages that form between different sections of the digestive tract or between the digestive organs and other nearby structures. A fistula is an opening or channel that develops due to inflammation, infection, injury, or a surgical complication. It allows the flow of fluids, food, or waste materials to pass from one location to another where they normally shouldn't.
The digestive system is composed of various organs involved in the processing of food and the absorption of nutrients. These include the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. When a fistula forms within this system, it disrupts its normal function and can lead to significant health issues.
Digestive system fistulas can occur at different locations, such as between the esophagus and the trachea (esophagotracheal fistula), the esophagus and the skin (esophagocutaneous fistula), or the intestines and the skin (enterocutaneous fistula). They can also develop between various parts of the intestines, between the intestines and the bladder or vagina, or between the intestines and organs like the liver or colon.
The symptoms of digestive system fistulas may include pain, inflammation, infection, abnormal fluid or gas discharge, malnutrition, weight loss, diarrhea, and the presence of undigested food in stools. Treatment options for digestive system fistulas depend on their location, size, and severity. They may involve medications, dermal patches, endoscopic procedures, surgical repair, or the creation of a temporary or permanent intestinal diversion to bypass the fistula.
