Fistulasare abnormal tunnel-shaped openings that form in the intestine and connect to another organ.

Fistulas need prompt medical treatment to control infection and other complications.

When untreated, the lesions grow larger until they connect to other organs.

Management and Treatment of Fistulas in Crohn’s - Illustration by Jessica Olah

Verywell / Jessica Olah

The primary management and treatment options for Crohn’s disease fistulas include:

Surgeryis often needed to treat fistulas.

Once the inflammation is under control, surgeons can remove or terminate the fistula.

In the future, it may become a tool for treating fistulizing Crohn’s disease.

They are very common in people with Crohn’s disease.

Fistulas are treatable with antibiotics, biologics, and often surgery.

A Word From Verywell

Unfortunately, fistulas are a common complication of Crohn’s disease.

If infection spreads, it can lead to serious and even life-threatening complications such assepsis.

There is also an increased risk of cancer due to untreated fistulas from Crohn’s disease.

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