Fistulous tracts in the horse

Abstract

Fistula “Fistulous tracts” Is an abnormal passage or communication usually between two internal organs or leading from one organ to the surface of the skin.

Some of the fistulous tracts include a tendon sheet and a joint (synovial fistula), from the intestine trough the abdominal wall (enterocutaneous or parietal fistula), between the mouth and skin (orocutaneous fistula). Fistulas could have one entrance and multiple “rabbit hutch’s” (meerkat).

Many other structures, organs, tissues and any bone of the horse could fistulated to the body surface (Bone secuestra).

Sinus tract is an abnormal cavity, channel or fistula permitting the escape of pus through the skin. Fistulas and sinus tracts are often used interchangeably or considered similar.

Fistulas commonly occur secondary to trauma, surgical or accidentally, foreign bodies (wood, metal, sands, small rocks, plastic, suture material, implants like mesh and orthopedic material).

Fistula could have genetic and iatrogenic etiology.

Fistula diagnosis requires scrupulous clinical exploration. Fistulas produce soft tissue chronic draining, soft tissue swelling, thickening, gas densities, periosteal reaction and chronic draining. Complement of the diagnosis include X-Ray, ultrasound, fistulougrams and bacterial cultures.

Therapy requires surgery, medical therapy and bacterial sensitivity (antibiogram).