Fistula tract in the intestine | Fistula tract

Fistula tract in the intestine

The intestine is a common organ of origin for fistula tracts. It is possible to distinguish between internal fistulas, which are located between the internal organs, and external ones, which connect the intestine to the body surface via the skin. In internal fistula ducts, there is either a connection between two intestinal loops or between the intestine and another organ such as the bladder.

The cause of fistula tracts in the intestine is usually inflammation such as diverticulitis (inflammation of protrusions of the intestinal wall) or Crohn’s disease (chronic inflammatory bowel disease). Whether or not a fistula tract needs to be treated depends on its location, the organs involved and the possible consequences of failure to treat it. If removal is necessary, this can usually only be done by surgery. If treatment does not seem necessary, regular check-ups are carried out if necessary.

Fistula passage in the groin

Like other fistulas, a fistula tract in the groin can be the result of an encapsulated inflammation. Pus can be emptied through the duct. The so-called AV fistulas (arterio-venous fistula), which can occur, for example, as a result of a cardiac catheter examination through the groin, are a separate category. This is a connection between the artery and the vein as a result of an injury to the vessel walls caused by the medical intervention. Since the AV fistula leads to a disturbance of the blood flow, it often has to be surgically removed.

Fistula tract on the tooth

A fistula tract on a tooth is usually the result of an untreated inflammation of the tooth root (or tooth pulp). The nerve of the tooth dies and the necrosis causes pus to form, which initially cannot escape. The body then forms a fistula duct, through which the pus can then flow into the oral cavity or, less frequently, outwards to the facial skin.

The emptying does not usually cause pain. A fistula tract is therefore often a chance finding at the dentist. A root canal treatment or extraction removes the inflammation and the fistula tract.