Additional Resources: Glossary

Abscess: a localized collection of pus in part of the body.

Anal canal: the final portion of the digestive tract, ending in the anal opening.

Anoscope: a small viewing scope used to examine the anal canal and lower rectum.

Collagen: a protein.

Fibrinogen: a protein found in blood plasma that is essential in the clotting process.

Fistula: a small, unwanted tunnel or tract that connects one surface in the body to another.

Fistula Probe: a blunt-tipped, narrow instrument designed to be inserted through a fistula tract to identify the internal and external openings.

Fistulotomy: an incision of a fistula.

Porcine: relating to or resembling pigs.

Seton: a piece of suture material that is threaded through the anal fistula and gradually tightened to open the fistula tract.

Suture: a piece of material used to close a wound or connect tissues.

Thrombin: a component found in blood that facilitates clotting.

Tract: an elongated area, such as a path or track.