What Is a Fistula?
6. Treatment
The treatment of a fistula depends on the location. In the case where an abscess is present, prompt incision and drainage is recommended. Generally, there are several elements that are crucial in the treatment of patients with an intestinal fistula.
This includes proper nutrition, treatment of infection, avoidance of sepsis, and controlling and managing the fistula drainage site. Some GI fistulas can spontaneously resolve without surgery. Conservative management has been described for up to 3 months. When it does not close on its own, some factors to consider include malignancy, presence of foreign body, undrained abscess, and active inflammation. In these cases, surgery may be the best option. Consultations from a nutritionist, wound care specialist, and surgeon may also be beneficial.
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