ˈfis(h)chələ noun
( plural fistulas -ləz ; or fistu·lae -ˌlē, -ˌlī)
Etymology: Middle English, from Latin
1. obsolete : a reed instrument or pipe ; especially : musette 1b
2. : a congenital or acquired passage leading from an abscess or hollow organ to the body surface or from one hollow organ to another and permitting passage of fluids (as pus) or secretions
a salivary fistula
prepared a fistula to obtain pure gastric juice from the dog
— compare sinus a
3. : fistulous withers