Chapter 46: Fistulas Flashcards
1
Q
What is a fistula?
A
Abnormal communication between two hollow organs or a hollow organ and the skin (i.e., two epithelial cell layers)
2
Q
What are the predisposing factors and conditions that maintain
patency of a fistula?
A
- *The acronym “HIS FRIEND”:**
- *H**igh output fistula (>500 cc/day)
- *I**ntestinal destruction (>50% of circumference)
- *S**hort-segment fistula <2.5 cm
- *F**oreign body (e.g., G-tube)
- *R**adiation
- *I**nfection
- *E**pithelialization (e.g., colostomy)
- *N**eoplasm
- *D**istal obstruction