Types of Fistulas
Fistulas vary based on their location. Here are the main types:
Anal Fistula
An anal fistula is an abnormal connection between the end of the anus and the surrounding skin. It usually appears as a small hole or painful red swelling near the anus. Anal fistulas can lead to complications such as fecal incontinence or pain during bowel movements.
Causes:
- Bacterial infection
- Blockage of the anal glands
- Inflammatory conditions like inflammatory bowel disease
- Sexually transmitted infections affecting the anus
- Cancer or damage from radiation therapy for cancer
- Injury or trauma during surgery
Vaginal Fistula
A vaginal fistula can form near the reproductive, digestive, and urinary systems. Types include:
- Vesicovaginal Fistula: Connects the bladder and the vagina.
- Uretero-vaginal Fistula: Connects the ureter and the vagina.
- Rectovaginal Fistula: Connects the rectum and the vagina.
This type can occur due to vaginal damage during childbirth, a cesarean section, or other surgeries. It may also develop from sexually transmitted infections.
Additionally, it can result from cancer in the colon, uterus, or bladder, or from radiation used to treat these cancers.
Symptoms:
- If connected to the bladder, it may cause urinary incontinence.
- If connected to the rectum, it may lead to frequent urinary tract infections, uterine infections, or foul-smelling vaginal discharge.
Tracheoesophageal Fistula
This type connects the trachea (windpipe) with the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. It allows food and liquids to pass from the esophagus into the trachea and lungs, leading to choking, coughing, or turning blue when eating or drinking.
Often congenital, this type of fistula may also result from surgical injuries or trauma from intubation.
Arteriovenous Fistula
An arteriovenous fistula causes abnormal blood flow between blood vessels. Typically congenital, it can occur in the legs, arms, kidneys, brain, or lungs.
Symptoms of Fistulas:
Symptoms vary based on the fistula’s location and range from mild to severe. Common symptoms include:
- Pain around the anus
- Persistent urinary leakage from the vagina
- Malaise
- Irritation of external genitalia
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Recurrent urinary tract infections
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Diarrhea
- Weight loss
- Constipation
How to Treat Fistulas
Some small fistulas may close on their own without causing significant symptoms. Others can cause pain or severe infections and require treatment.
For Arteriovenous Fistulas: If small, treatment may involve special compression garments or gloves to apply pressure to the blood vessels and allow healing, along with medications to prevent blood clotting.
Depending on the location and type of fistula, treatment options may include:
- Surgical Procedures: To repair or close the fistula.
- Catheterization: Inserting a tube to allow drainage and self-healing of the fistula.
- Injection of Materials: To block the arteriovenous fistula.
- Radiation Therapy: For closing small fistulas.
If left untreated, some fistulas can lead to severe infections and life-threatening conditions.
