Fistula Closure

Advanced Endoscopic Solutions for Gastrointestinal Fistulas

What is a Gastrointestinal Fistula?

A gastrointestinal (GI) fistula is an abnormal connection between the GI tract and another organ, tissue, or the skin. This condition can lead to leakage of digestive contents, causing infections, malnutrition, and discomfort. Fistulas often develop as a result of surgery, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), trauma, or certain infections.

At Central Gastro, we offer advanced, minimally invasive endoscopic fistula closure procedures to treat these abnormal connections effectively, improving healing and restoring your digestive health.

Common Types of Gastrointestinal Fistulas

• Enterocutaneous Fistula: A connection between the intestine and the skin.
• Gastrocutaneous Fistula: A connection between the stomach and the skin.
• Colovaginal Fistula: A connection between the colon and the vagina.
• Colovesical Fistula: A connection between the colon and the bladder.
• Anastomotic Leaks: Fistulas that form after GI surgery at the connection (anastomosis) site.

Fistulas can cause serious complications, and prompt evaluation and treatment are essential.

Symptoms of Gastrointestinal Fistulas

The symptoms of a fistula depend on its location and severity. Common signs include:

• Abnormal drainage: Leakage of fluids through the skin or other openings.
• Abdominal pain or swelling
• Fever or infection
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea or malnutrition due to fluid loss
• Recurrent urinary tract infections (with colovesical fistulas)

If you experience these symptoms, our experts at Central Gastro can evaluate your condition and provide the best treatment options.

Endoscopic Fistula Closure: A Minimally Invasive Solution

Endoscopic fistula closure offers a safe and effective alternative to surgical intervention for managing gastrointestinal fistulas. Using advanced endoscopic techniques, we can close the abnormal connection without the need for open surgery.

Techniques for Fistula Closure

1. Endoscopic Clips (Over-The-Scope Clips):
   • Special clips are applied to close the fistula opening, sealing the abnormal connection.
2. Endoscopic Suturing:
   • Advanced devices are used to place sutures inside the GI tract, closing the fistula and promoting healing.
3. Fibrin Glue Injection:
   • A biological adhesive is injected into the fistula tract to seal it and encourage tissue regeneration.
4. Stent Placement:
   • Temporary stents are inserted to support healing by diverting GI contents away from the fistula site.
5. Combination Therapies:
   • In complex cases, multiple techniques may be combined for optimal results.

Benefits of Endoscopic Fistula Closure

• Minimally Invasive: Avoids the need for major surgery.
• Faster Recovery: Shorter recovery time with minimal discomfort.
• Reduced Complications: Lower risk of infections and post-procedure issues.
• Outpatient Procedure: Most patients can go home the same day.
• Effective Results: High success rates for fistula closure and improved quality of life.

What to Expect During the Procedure

1. Preparation:
   • You will be asked to fast for 6–8 hours before the procedure.
   • Sedation or anesthesia will be administered for your comfort.
2. Procedure:
   • An endoscope (a flexible tube with a camera) is inserted through the mouth or rectum, depending on the fistula location.
   • The chosen closure technique (clips, sutures, glue, or stents) is applied to seal the fistula.
   • The procedure typically takes 30–60 minutes.
3. Recovery:
   • You will be monitored after the procedure until sedation wears off.
   • Most patients can return home the same day with specific care instructions.

Post-Procedure Care

• Dietary Guidelines: You may need to follow a liquid or soft diet for a few days.
• Monitoring: Watch for symptoms like fever, abdominal pain, or drainage, and report any concerns promptly.
• Follow-Up: Follow-up appointments will ensure the fistula is healing properly. Additional imaging or endoscopic evaluations may be performed.