colonic fistula [Gk, kolon + L, pipe] , an abnormal passage from the colon to the surface of the body or an internal organ or structure. In regional enteritis chronic inflammation may lead to the formation of a fistula between two adjacent loops of bowel. An external opening from the colon to the surface of the abdomen may be created surgically after the removal of a malignant or severely ulcerated segment of the bowel. See also colostomy.
