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fistula
noun
fis·tu·la
ˈfis-chə-lə
ˈfish-
plural fistulas or fistulae
ˈfis-chə-ˌlē
-ˌlī
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
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
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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 18 Dec. 2024.
Kids Definition
fistula
noun
fis·tu·la
ˈfis-chə-lə
plural fistulas or fistulae
-ˌlē
-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 dialysis—Pasteur Rasuli et al.
fistula
2 of 2
see cassia fistula
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