What is an enteric fistula?

An enterocutaneous fistula (ECF) is an abnormal connection that develops between the intestinal tract or stomach and the skin. As a result, contents of the stomach or intestines leak through to the skin. Most ECFs occur after bowel surgery.

What is a post operative fistula?

The development of an enterocutaneous fistula (ECF) is a potentially catastrophic postoperative complication. Virtually any intra-abdominal procedure can result in an ECF, with procedures that intentionally or unintentionally damage the bowel wall carrying the greatest risk.

What causes enteric fistula?

Most ECFs occur after bowel surgery. Other causes include infection, perforated peptic ulcer, inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. An ECF may also develop from an abdominal injury or trauma, such as a stabbing or gunshot.

What is a high output enterocutaneous fistula?

Most often, a high-output ECF is characterized as one with >500 mL/24 hours, low output <200 mL/24 hours, and a moderate output fistula between 200 and 500 mL/24 hours. While the great majority of ECFs are iatrogenic (75–85%), between 15 and 25% occur spontaneously.

Which is an example of an enteric fistula?

An example of fistula formation between different functioning organs are enteric fistulas, which are abnormal connections between the gastrointestinal tract and other abdominal organs, chest, or skin.

How is an enterocutaneous fistula treated at UCSF?

In addition to surgeons, specialists in nursing, nutrition, intensive-care medicine, wound care, plastic surgery, pharmacology and infectious disease may be part of the treatment team. At UCSF Medical Center, enterocutaneous fistulas are treated by specialists in the Complex Abdominal Surgery Program.

How are KCI devices used to treat enteric fistulas?

KCI offers three customizable devices to isolate and divert effluent from enteroatmospheric fistulas, enterocutaneous fistulas, or an ostomy close to an incision. Education is key to promoting quality of care, particularly when it involves the healthcare community.

What do you need to know about fistulas?

Fistulas are an abnormal connection between two or more structures or spaces. Fistulas are usually the result of injury or surgery, but also can result from infection or inflammation. Managing patients with fistulas is challenging and represents a significant unmet need.