fistula

Definition

An abnormal connection or passageway between organs or vessels that normally do not connect.

Etymology

Learned borrowing from Latin fistula (“pipe, ulcer, catheter”). Doublet of fester.

Example Sentences

• "communicating fistula"
• "blind fistula"
• "Small fistulæ are to be closed bilaterally in an antero-posterior line[…]"