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Definition

noun

Surgical incision or enlargement of a fistula

Supplement

Fistulotomy entails the laying open of the fistula whereas fistulectomy refers to its complete excision. Fistulotomy is, therefore, a treatment option to treat fistulae that formed between organs as a result of trauma or certain diseases.

Word origin: Latin fistula (pipe) + Greek –tomia (a cutting of)

Synonym(s):

• syringotomy

Compare:

• fistulectomy

See also:

• fistula