What defines an internal fistula?

Prepare for the Ostomy Management Specialist Certification Exam with our comprehensive quizzes. Dive into multiple choice questions complete with hints and explanations. Gear up and excel in your examination journey!

Multiple Choice

What defines an internal fistula?

Explanation:
An internal fistula is an abnormal tract that links two internal organs or hollow spaces within the body, with no opening to the skin or outside surface. This means the drainage or passage stays entirely inside the body, connecting lumens such as bowel to bowel, bowel to bladder, or bowel to vagina. In contrast, fistulas that open to the skin or outside the body are external fistulas, because they create a pathway from an internal site to the exterior. A fistula that drains externally or one that connects to skin only would not be considered internal.

An internal fistula is an abnormal tract that links two internal organs or hollow spaces within the body, with no opening to the skin or outside surface. This means the drainage or passage stays entirely inside the body, connecting lumens such as bowel to bowel, bowel to bladder, or bowel to vagina.

In contrast, fistulas that open to the skin or outside the body are external fistulas, because they create a pathway from an internal site to the exterior. A fistula that drains externally or one that connects to skin only would not be considered internal.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy