GENERAL-MANAGEMENT OF GASTROINTESTINAL FISTULAS - RECOGNITION, STABILIZATION, AND CORRECTION OF FLUID AND ELECTROLYTE IMBALANCES

Much of the morbidity associated with gastrointestinal fistulas result s from fluid losses, electrolyte abnormalities, nutritional depletion, and sepsis. Early recognition of fistulas and correction of fluid and electrolyte imbalances, therefore, are important steps in their manag ement. This article outlines an approach to the correction of the meta bolic abnormalities resulting from gastrointestinal fistulas.