FreeMD® Anorectal Fistula: Definition

Anorectal Fistula

Definition

Definition

Common names:

Anal Fistula
Anorectal Fistula
Anus Fistula
Fistula in the Anus
Fistula in the Rectum
Perianal Fistula
Rectal Fistula
Rectum Fistula

A person with anorectal fistula has an abnormal passageway between the inside surface of the rectum, and the outside skin that surrounds the anus. Anorectal fistulas are rare and respond well to surgery.

View more Rectal and anal problems topics

Related Topics:

Anal pain
Crohn's disease
Perianal abscess
Pilonidal abscess
Rectal bleeding
More...

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Last Updated: Dec 24, 2007 References

Authors: Stephen J. Schueler, MD; John H. Beckett, MD; D. Scott Gettings, MD

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References:

Billingham RP, Isler JT, Kimmins MH, Nelson JM, Schweitzer J, Murphy MM. The diagnosis and management of common anorectal disorders. Curr Probl Surg. 2004 Jul;41(7):586-645.
Hyman N. Anorectal abscess and fistula. Prim Care. 1999 Mar;26(1):69-80.
Nunoo-Mensah JW, Balasubramaniam S, Wasserberg N, Artinyan A, Gonzalez-Ruiz C, Kaiser AM, Beart RW Jr, Vukasin P. Fistula-in-ano: do antibiotics make a difference? Int J Colorectal Dis. 2005 Aug 10;:1-3.