The management of high-output intestinal fistulas

A high-output gastrointestinal fistula is a surgical catastrophe of the first order of magnitude. Previously associated with an extraordinarily high mortality, the advent of parentaeral nutrition has markedly altered the management of these fistulas. Malnutrition and electrolyte imbalance formerly were the causes of death in the majority of patients. At the present time the mortality rate has decreased from approximately 40-60% to 6-20%, depending on the series. a suggested plan of therapy for high-output gastrointestinal fistulas is outlined. Good local care, sump drainage and nutritional support with or without the use of appropriate antibiotics, depending on the circumstances, are the keystones of management. Radiologic definition of the fistula is of primary importance. Certain criteria by which one may predict fistula closure aare outlined. The emphasis in this chapter is on an attempt at spontaneous closure with parenteral nutrition. In the event that this in not achieved, complete exclusion of the fistula from the gastrointestinal tract, either by excision or by total bypass, is mandatory to achieve satisfactory results. Causes of death remain sepsis and peritonitis related to the fistula, but an occasional patient will succumb to massive bleeding. Catheter-related sepsis and complications of hyperalimentation are largely preventable, and steps to prevent such complications are outlined.