Patient education: Enteric fistula (The Basics)

What is an enteric fistula? — An enteric fistula is an abnormal connection that forms between a part of the intestines and another part of the body. It can form after a person has surgery, but it can happen without surgery in some cases, too. The 2 common types of enteric fistula are:

●"Enterocutaneous" fistula – This is a connection between the intestine and the skin.

●"Entero-entero" fistula – This is a connection between 1 part of the intestines and another. This can form between small intestine and small intestine, small intestine and large intestine, or large intestine and large intestine.

Enteric fistulas can also cause abnormal connections with other body parts. Examples include the uterus, bladder, or blood vessels. Their symptoms and treatments are different from those of enteric fistulas described here.

What are the symptoms of enteric fistula? — The symptoms depend on the type of fistula involved.

●Enterocutaneous fistulas can cause leakage of the intestines through an opening on the skin.

●Entero-entero fistulas can cause a swollen and tender belly, fever, or diarrhea.

Is there a test for enteric fistula? — Yes. Your doctor or nurse should be able to tell if you have it by learning about your symptoms and doing an exam. But you might need tests that include:

●A CT scan – This is a special kind of X-ray.

●A fistulogram – For this test, the doctor injects a dye into an opening in the fistula and then takes an X-ray to see where it goes.

These tests will help the doctor figure out the location of the fistula. Sometimes, tests can also help them find the cause.

How is an enteric fistula treated? — Treatments can include:

●Fluids, medicines, and nutrients that go into a vein through a thin tube, called an "IV" – These replace fluid that is lost through leakage of the intestines or diarrhea.

●A tube (called a "catheter") – This helps drain any fluid collections or areas of infection in the belly or pelvis.

●Wound care – This involves careful cleaning and using special dressings. The goal is to collect leaking fluid and protect the skin from irritation or infection.

You will likely need surgery if your health gets worse, or if your fistula does not heal as quickly as it should. Surgery for a fistula is usually complicated, and it can take a long time to recover.

More on this topic

Patient education: Rectovaginal fistula (The Basics)
Patient education: Anal abscess and fistula (The Basics)