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Definition

noun, plural: fistulae

(1) (pathology) A narrow passage or communication formed between internal organs or from the internal organ to the surface, as a result of a disease, congenital disorder, or injury

(2) (surgery) Opening surgically formed into a hollow organ, for drainage

Supplement

Fistulae may form in various parts of the body and are named based on the organ or parts involved:

• Oroantral fistula
• Orofacial fistula
• Respiratory tract fistula
• Enterovaginal fistula
• Digestive system fistula
• A-v fistula
• B-p fistula
• Urogenital fistula
• Enterovesical fistula
• Vesicocolic fistula
• Genitourinary fistula

Word origin: Latin fistula (pipe, ulcer)

Variant(s):

• fistule

Related term(s):

• Mann-bollman fistula
• Horseshoe fistula
• Fistula test
• Fistula knife