Fistula (noun)

A pathological communication between two epithelial surfaces, or between an epithelial surface and a hollow viscus.

Origin:

Late latin, from latin fistula, pipe, tube.

Examples:

1. The patient was diagnosed with a fistula in his esophagus, which was causing him to experience difficulty swallowing.
2. The fistula was caused by a ruptured abscess, which had created a pathway between two parts of the body.
3. The surgeon performed a procedure to close the fistula, which involved sewing the two sides of the communication together.
4. The fistula was a source of infection, and the patient's condition worsened until the fistula was repaired.
5. The patient was advised to avoid solid food until the fistula had healed, as the pressure of chewing could cause the fistula to reopen.