FREQUENCY OF INDICATIONS AND TYPES OF ENTERIC FISTULA IN THE SURGICAL WARDS OF TERTIARY CARE HOSPITALS

Abstract

Introduction: Strategic enteric fistulas are crucial operations in the management of various gastrointestinal disorders such as intestinal obstruction, perforation, and trauma. It is necessary to examine the frequency of this type of enteric fistula, as well as indications for its treatment and outcomes, to improve patient management.  Objectives: To determine the frequency of indications, and types of enteric fistulas formed in the surgical ward of Khalifa gul Nawaz Teaching Hospital, and district headquarters hospital, bannu and analyze associated outcomes.  Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed in 2023 for six months with 121 patients with enteric fistula formation. The research employed a nonprobability consecutive sampling technique. The demographic information, indications for the creation of enteric fistula, type of enteric fistula and postoperative complications were recorded. Descriptive statistics in the current study were done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 23.  Results: The most common indications for operation were intestinal obstruction, which was seen in 36.4%, and perforation in 28.1%. Loop enteric fistulas (58.7%) were the most common, while end enteric fistulas (11.6%). Wound infection, which was noted in 15.7% of patients, and enteric fistula retraction in 10.7% of patients were more common in emergency surgeries, which formed 42.3%.  Conclusion: The aspects of early diagnosis, optimum preoperative preparation and psychological intervention need to be specifically personalized for the benefit of enteric fistula patients.