fistula

noun

fis·​tu·​la ˈfis-chə-lə How to pronounce fistula (audio)
ˈfish-
plural fistulas or fistulae ˈfis-chə-ˌlē How to pronounce fistula (audio) -ˌlī How to pronounce fistula (audio)
ˈfish-
: an abnormal passage that leads from an abscess or hollow organ or part to the body surface or from one hollow organ or part to another and that may be surgically created to permit passage of fluids or secretions

Examples of fistula in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
One of the most serious complications of untreated Crohn’s disease are fistulas. Caroline C. Boyle, USA TODAY, 2 Dec. 2024 The inflammation caused a fistula, a sort of tunnel in the tissue going from my butt to my skin. Jj Courtney, Verywell Health, 21 Oct. 2024 Other symptoms of hidradenitis suppurativa include blackheads and, in severe cases, abscesses and tunnels underneath the skin (known as fistulas or sinus tracts). Petra Guglielmetti, Glamour, 18 Oct. 2024 For some, diverticulitis can lead to complications such as abscesses, fistulas, urinary problems, blockages, or bleeding. Jake Parks, Discover Magazine, 17 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for fistula 

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin, pipe, fistula

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fistula was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near fistula

Cite this Entry

“Fistula.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fistula. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

fistula

noun
fis·​tu·​la ˈfis-chə-lə How to pronounce fistula (audio)
plural fistulas or fistulae -ˌlē How to pronounce fistula (audio)
-ˌlī
: an abnormal passage leading from an abscess or hollow organ

Medical Definition

fistula

1 of 2 noun
fis·​tu·​la
ˈfis(h)-chə-lə, British also ˈfis-tyu̇-lə
plural fistulas or fistulae
-lē also -lī
1
: an abnormal passage that leads from an abscess or hollow organ or part to the body surface or from one hollow organ or part to another and that may be surgically created to permit passage of fluids or secretions
a congenital tracheoesophageal fistula
an arteriovenous fistula was reconstructed in the right arm for dialysisPasteur Rasuli et al.
2

fistula

2 of 2
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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