[Postoperative entero-cutaneous fistula]

Abstract

Enterocutaneous fistulas of the digestive tract is a major catastrophe of surgical practice. In most cases, they represent serious complications of abdominal surgery. A total of 90% of cases develop of a surgical complication or injury. Despite progress in the management of fistulas, they were traditionally associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. The three major complications of fistulas have been electrolyte disturbance, malnutrition and sepsis. Complications are strongly related to anatomic site of fistula, to biochemical and electrolyte content of discharge, output, and underlying pathology. The ultimate objective in management of patients with enterocutaneous fistulas is fistula closure. In 1964, Chapman proposed management for fistulas in which a set of priorities in treatment was emphasized. Medical treatment is intended to cure (spontaneous closure) or to prepare patients for surgery. It was recognized that adequate nutritional support is an essential part of treatment of enterocutaneous fistulas. Control of sepsis is a priority because sepsis is the most common cause of death. Uncontrolled sepsis should be attacked as early as possible. Although spontaneous closure has increased in most series, it is likely that the majority of patients will require an operation and this should be performed at the proper time.