In this episode, Dr Jonathan White discusses the topic of enterocutaneous fistula. After listening to this podcast, learners should be able to:
- define what a fistula is
- describe how to recognize an enterocutaneous fistula
- list the common causes of enterocutaneous fistula
- outline the physiological consquences associated with enterocutaneous fistula
- explain the principles of management of enterocutaneous fistula using the SNAP principle
Thank you for this podcast! Are there circumstances in which putting a wound vac over a fistula is appropriate? On the unit I work, sometimes the docs want to try this, but it always ends up being a contentious issue. Thanks again!
Jay
(cross posted from surgery101.libsyn.com)
Good question. We’re usually trying to decrease the drainage from a fistula and get it to dry up, so applying vacuum doesn’t seem like a good idea because it will make more stuff come out. Having said that, using a vac can be effective on some fistulas, and can provide a way to control the effluent and protect the skin. I don’t think there’s much evidence either way, and applying a vac doesn’t seem to hurt much, so I’d give it a try in the right circumstances.