A fistula is an abnormal connection between two body parts, such as an organ or blood vessel and another structure. Fistulas are usually the result of an injury or surgery. Infection or inflammation can also cause a fistula to form.
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Fistulas may occur in many parts of the body. They can form between:
- An artery and vein
- Bile ducts and the surface of the skin (from gallbladder surgery)
- The cervix and vagina
- The neck and throat
- The space inside the skull and nasal sinus
- The bowel and vagina
- The colon and surface of the body, causing feces to exit through an opening other than the anus
- The stomach and surface of the skin
- The uterus and peritoneal cavity (the space between the walls of the abdomen and internal organs)
- An artery and vein in the lungs (results in blood not picking up enough oxygen in the lungs)
- The navel and gut
