Guided tour of hidden tracts in the pelvis: exploring pelvic fistulas

Background Fistulas are an abnormal connection between two or more epithelial surfaces. When fistulization between adjacent structures occurs in the pelvis, there is almost invariably significant associated morbidity and impact on a patient’s quality of life. Imaging may aid in the diagnosis of pelv...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Archives of gynecology and obstetrics 2021-10, Vol.304 (4), p.863-871
Main Authors: Chen, Iris E, Ferraro, Regan, Chow, Lucy, Bahrami, Simin
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Abscesses
Birth injuries
Bladder
Endocrinology
Fistula
Gynecology
Human Genetics
Medicine
Medicine & Public Health
Morbidity
Obstetrics/Perinatology/Midwifery
Pelvis
Quality of life
Review
Trauma
Ultrasonic imaging
Vagina
Visualization
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Summary:Background Fistulas are an abnormal connection between two or more epithelial surfaces. When fistulization between adjacent structures occurs in the pelvis, there is almost invariably significant associated morbidity and impact on a patient’s quality of life. Imaging may aid in the diagnosis of pelvic fistulas and is essential to identify any associated pathology, define the course of the fistula, and aid in pre-surgical planning. Purpose This article aims to review the wide array of clinical and imaging presentations of fistulas in the pelvis, with a focus on the radiologists’ role in managing this challenging entity. Methods This article will review each classification type of fistula. Results Pelvic fistula is a devastating condition that causes significant morbidity and evaluation can be challenging. Conclusions Imaging, and particularly MRI, plays a vital role in the diagnosis, characterizing the course of a fistula and demonstrating associated complications, which are essential to guide treatment decisions.
ISSN:0932-0067
1432-0711
DOI:10.1007/s00404-021-06144-1