Understanding the Causes of Fistulas
A fistula (English: Fistula) is defined as an abnormal connection between different parts of the body, such as organs or blood vessels. This connection often arises due to surgical procedures, certain types of infections, or inflammation. However, the causes can vary depending on the location of the fistula’s formation. Below are some of the causes associated with fistula development based on the affected area of the body.
Arteriovenous Fistula
An arteriovenous fistula (English: Arteriovenous fistula) occurs when there is an abnormal connection between an artery and a vein. This leads to direct blood flow from the arteries to the veins, interrupting the normal blood supply to the capillaries located between these blood vessels. The following are some causes of this type of fistula:
- Trauma resulting in skin penetration.
- Certain genetic disorders, such as hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia.
- Congenital arteriovenous fistula present from birth.
- Cardiac catheterization procedures.
- Surgical creation of an arteriovenous fistula in conditions like kidney failure to facilitate dialysis.
Gastrointestinal Fistula
This type of fistula is characterized by an abnormal connection between a part of the digestive system and a neighboring organ, which can result in the leakage of stomach acid. In most cases, a gastrointestinal fistula (English: Gastrointestinal fistula) is caused by surgical interventions in the abdominal area. Other potential contributors to the development of gastrointestinal fistulas include:
- Digestive ulcers.
- Radiation treatment in the abdominal region.
- Certain types of cancer.
- Injuries to the abdominal area.
- Diverticulitis.
- Various infections.
- Inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease.
Rectovaginal Fistula
Some women may experience a rectovaginal fistula (English: Rectovaginal fistula), which is an abnormal connection between the rectum and the vagina. This condition can lead to the leakage of gas and stool through the vagina. Causes of rectovaginal fistulas include:
- Birth injuries, which are the most common reason, including perineal tears and episiotomy.
- Certain cancers affecting the pelvic area, such as cervical and anal cancer.
- Radiation therapy for cancer in the pelvic region.
- Surgical procedures involving the vagina, rectum, anus, or perineum.
- Chronic conditions like Crohn’s disease.
- Other factors, including chronic inflammation, specific infections, and vaginal injuries.
Anal Fistula
An anal fistula (English: Anal fistula) forms between the end of the intestines and the area near the anal opening. It is often the result of an infection near the anus, leading to an abscess (English: Abscess) in the surrounding tissues. Additional, less common causes of anal fistulas may include:
- Surgical intervention in the anal region.
- Suppurative hidradenitis.
- Infections such as tuberculosis and human immunodeficiency virus.
- Conditions like Crohn’s disease.
- Diverticulitis.