Spontaneous Enterocutaneous Fistulae 8 Years after a Laparostomy

A 72-year-old male died following the development of intestinal fistulae 8 years after formation of a laparostomy wound which never completely re-epithelialised. The development of entero-cutaneous fistulae is a well recognised complication of a laparostomy and usually occurs soon after surgery[1],[2]. The causes of fistulation are generally either use of vacuum dressings, extension of active inflammatory bowel disease or anastomotic leakage[3],[4]. Poor nutritional state and other co-morbidities may predispose a patient to anastomotic leakage and so may also be considered risk factors.A literature search showed no published cases of fistula as a complication of laparostomy after such an extended period of time. Abdominal reconstructive surgery should be considered for such non-healing wounds.