The Story Behind Fistula Solution’s Life-Changing Devices
When it comes to managing fistulas, the standard tools haven’t changed much in over a century. Pouches, gauze, adhesives, and creatively improvised techniques are still commonly used.
But patients deserve more.
A Long History of Improvising
Fistulas have been around for centuries. One of the earliest documented cases dates back to 1825, when military physician Dr. William Beaumont treated a young man, Alexis St. Martin, who had been shot in the abdomen with a musket. With no modern options available, he used rags and leather strapping to manage the effluent.
Shockingly, similar improvised methods are still used today.
“Over the years of wound management, we really haven’t come all that far,”
explains Mary Anne, RN, Complex Abdomen Specialist and Inventor of the Wound Crown, Fistula Funnel, and Isolator Strip. “Many fistulas are still managed with gauze, frequent dressing changes, and adhesives.”
But complex abdominal wounds, especially enteric fistulas, require something built for the job.
Real Solutions for Enterocutaneous Fistula Care
Fistula Solution was created to address the gap between what patients need and what was available. The result is a lineup of clinician-designed devices that isolate effluent, protect skin, and support real healing.
These are not general supplies. They are purpose-built tools for patients facing real complexity.
The Fistula Solution Device Lineup
Fistula Solution currently offers three devices, each designed for specific clinical needs:
- Wound Crown
Ideal for single, small-bowel fistulas and high output ostomies. Named after Mary Anne herself, the “Fistula Queen.” - Fistula Funnel
Designed for smaller fistulas or those located near wound edges. - Isolator Strip
A flexible 14" strip that can be looped to isolate multiple fistulas or shaped to span wide wound beds.
Each device directs effluent into a pouching system, giving patients the freedom to eat, move, and heal without constant dressing changes or skin breakdown.
Why Our Approach to Enterocutaneous Fistula Care Works
Before these devices existed, clinicians were MacGyvering — cutting, taping, and adapting whatever was available.
“Now we have something that actually fits,”
says Mary Anne.
The devices from Fistula Solution are:
- Easy to apply
- Pre-formed for common clinical needs
- Designed to isolate the fistula or ostomy and protect the skin
No more guesswork. No more frustration. Just real tools that support better outcomes.
What Clinicians Are Hoping to Achieve
Whether it’s a surgeon, WOC nurse, or wound care team, the goal remains the same:
Isolate the fistula. Contain the effluent. Support healing.
Fistula Solution helps make that process more predictable, more effective, and more aligned with the realities clinicians face daily.
Ready to Learn More?
Fistula Solution is proud to support healthcare providers across the country with devices that make a difference in complex wound care.
Explore our Knowledge Center for product details, clinician tips, and educational tools:
Additional Resources:
Smithsonian Magazine: The gunshot wound that changed medicine.