Seton stitch


 * For people named Seton, see Seton (surname)

A seton or seton stitch is a medical term for a procedure used to aid the healing of fistulae.

The procedure involves running a surgical-grade cord through the fistula tract so that the cord creates a loop that joins up outside the fistula. It is used to allow the fistula to continue to drain while it is healing, rather than allowing the exterior of the wound to close over, thereby potentially trapping pus and other infectious material in the wound (which can cause a future relapse). By repeated tightening of the Seton stitch, it can also be used to gradually cut through the fistula wall. The fistula gradually heals over behind the cutting Seton thereby slowly moving the fistula until it is outside the body and therefore no longer a problem. The procedure was mentioned by Hippocrates.