A fistula is an abnormal connection between an organ, vessel, or
intestine and another organ, vessel or intestine, or the skin.
Fistulas can be thought of as tubes connecting internal tubular
structures, such as arteries, veins, or intestine, to one another
or to the skin. Fistulas are usually the result of trauma or
surgery, but can also result from infection or inflammation.
Review Date: 08/02/2009
Reviewed By: Linda Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of
Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of
Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director,
A.D.A.M., Inc.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)
