Entero-Atmospheric Fistula Managed with Kehr’s T-Tube; A Case Report

Introduction: A fistula is a communication between two epithelialized surfaces. Entero-atmospheric fistula (EAF) is an enteric fistula occurring in the setting of an open abdomen, thus creating a communication between the GI tract and the external atmosphere. The critical tenets in successful management of gastro intestinal fistulas are recognition of fistula, control of infection and further contamination, restoration of fluid and electrolyte losses, and re-establishment of positive nutritional balance before undertaking major definitive corrective procedures. A case of superficial EAF managed successfully with Kehr’s T-tube is presented.

Patient information: A 68-year-old gentleman of rectal trauma managed with loop colostomy with subsequent closure, presented with intestinal obstruction. On laparotomy a small leak with localized faecopurulent collection was present. Resection of the infectious anastomosis bearing segment with fashioning of proximal diversion colostomy with distal mucus fistula was done, post-operative period was uneventful. Restoration of bowel continuity after mobilization of colon and intra peritoneal end to end anastomosis was done at an interval of 6 months. In the post-operative period, patient developed grade IV wound sepsis and burst abdomen. Subsequent abdominal examination revealed an EAF in a small bowel loop lying adjacent to anastomotic site with high fistula output. Placement of short limb of Kehr’s T-tube in the fistulous bowel loop resulted in reducing the fistula output promoting wound healing and successful management of EAF.

Conclusion: In the superficial high output EAF, negotiation of horizontal limbs of Kehr’s T-tube into the fistula bearing bowel loop, helps in reducing the fistula output resulting in better management of fistula, promotion in wound healing and reversion of catabolic state. Subsequently stoma bag/wound manager or effective VAC may be applied to aid the ultimate closure of the fistula.

To conclude management of EAF deserve to be individualized and innovative as per the clinical situation for successful outcome.