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Guided tour of hidden tracts in the pelvis: exploring pelvic fistulas
Iris E Chen1, Regan Ferraro2, Lucy Chow2
1Ronald Reagan, UCLA Medical Center, 757 Westwood Plaza, Suite 1638, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA. iechen@mednet.ucla.edu.
Background:
Fistulas are an abnormal connection between two or more epithelial surfaces. When fistulization between adjacent structures occurs in the pelvis, there is almost invariably significant associated morbidity and impact on a patient's quality of life. Imaging may aid in the diagnosis of pelvic fistulas and is essential to identify any associated pathology, define the course of the fistula, and aid in pre-surgical planning.
Purpose:
This article aims to review the wide array of clinical and imaging presentations of fistulas in the pelvis, with a focus on the radiologists' role in managing this challenging entity.
Methods:
This article will review each classification type of fistula.
Results:
Pelvic fistula is a devastating condition that causes significant morbidity and evaluation can be challenging.
Conclusions:
Imaging, and particularly MRI, plays a vital role in the diagnosis, characterizing the course of a fistula and demonstrating associated complications, which are essential to guide treatment decisions.
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