Crohn's disease and enterocutaneous fistulas

Abstract

Fistulas that arise in association with Crohn's Disease are classified as those with no evidence of active disease (type 1) and those associated with intra-abdominal abscess formation (type 2). This distinction is important since conservative management is likely to attain spontaneous closure of a type 1 fistula but not a type 2 fistula. Enterocutaneous (EC) fistulas cause significant morbidity and mortality due to sepsis, malnutrition and fluid imbalance. Once developed, their treatment is often complex and difficult.