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Clin Colon Rectal Surg 2010; 23(3): 133-141
DOI: 10.1055/s-0030-1262980
Published by Thieme Medical Publishers

Historical Perspectives in the Care of Patients with Enterocutaneous Fistula

Jonathan B. Lundy1 , Josef E. Fischer2
  • 1United States Army Institute of Surgical Research, Fort Sam Houston, Texas
  • 2Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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Publication History

Publication Date:
24 August 2010 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Evidence can be found throughout surgical history of how devastating an enterocutaneous fistula (ECF) can be for both patient and surgeon. From antiquity, this complication of abdominal surgery, malignancy, radiation, trauma, or inflammatory processes has been a significant challenge to surgeons due to high associated mortality and significant morbidity. An ECF causes dehydration, malnutrition, skin excoriation, and sepsis, and has profound psychological effects on the patient. Recent mortality rates of patients suffering an ECF approach 20%. The authors illustrate the history of management of patients with ECF and discuss advances in perioperative care including parasurgical care, nutrition, wound care, and the history of surgical techniques.

KEYWORDS

Enterocutaneous fistulas - historical review

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Jonathan B LundyM.D. 

3400 Rawley E. Chambers

Fort Sam Houston, TX 78234

Email: jlundy1313@yahoo.com

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