Fistula

The word fistula comes from a Latin word that means tube or pipe. In medicine, a fistula is an abnormal connection between two hollow spaces. This can be blood vessels, intestines, or other hollow organs. Fistulas are usually caused by injury or surgery. But they can also result from an infection or inflammation. Fistulas are generally a disease condition, but doctors may create fistulas by surgery for medical reasons.

A rectobladder neck fistula, between the bladder and rectum

Treatment

Treatment for fistula depends on the reason for the fistula and on how serious it is. Doctors often treat fistula with surgery and antibiotics. The first step in treating a fistula is usually an examination by a doctor. The doctor determines the size and "path" that the fistula takes in the body.

Types of fistula

• Rectovaginal fistula between the rectum and vagina.
• Obstetric fistula between either the rectum and vagina or the rectum and bladder after severe or failed childbirth, when adequate medical care is not available.
• Vesicovaginal fistula - a type of urogenital fistula (between the vagina and bladder)