An anal fistula is but an infected tract (fistulous tract) that is formed between the skin and the anus / anal region. Most anal fistulas are due to infections of the anal gland which develops into an abscess and upon constant re-infection, the abscess finds a route to drain outside continuously or intermittently through an opening in the exterior skin situated usually next to the anal opening. It is best surgically treated.
How are fistulas formed??
Fistulas are a result of long-standing abscesses. untreated abscesses predispose to anal fistula formation in the long run. few medical conditions increase the chances for an anal fistula formation. All of these medical conditions involve gut inflammation with subsequent infection and abscess / anal fistula formation.
These include,
- Colitis
- Chronic diarrhoea
- Crohn’s disease
- Radiation treatment for rectal cancer
- Tuberculosis
- Sexually transmitted diseases
- Ulcerative colitis
Signs and symptoms of anal fistulas.
- Faecal incontinence
- Fever
- Chills
- Swelling
- Redness
- Discharge
- Bleeding
- Discharge
- Constipation
Should you encounter these signs and symptoms, reach out to a medical professional immediately.
Comforting practices while dealing with an anal fistula.
- Sitz bath – sitting in a warm bath 3 or 4 times a day.
- Eating fiber rich diet and drinking plenty of fluids.
- Laxative or stool softener, if recommended by your doctor.
Let’s talk treatment, A guide to relief from Anal Fistulas.
You find yourself with some of the listed symptoms of an anal abscess or fistulas, seeking out professional help is important. The doctor may check on your previous medical history as well as examine the fistulous tract for determining the extent to decide on the treatment plan. The doctor may subject you to imaging studies and diagnostic endoscopic studies. MRI fistulograms provide a clearer picture of the complexity of fistulas which aids in treatment plans.
Fistulas are usually surgically treated for faster and better recovery. Treatment plans are patient specific in that some might just require a simple fistulotomy while others may require something a bit more complex like LIFT (Ligation of the Inter-sphincteric Fistula Tract) which are usually done in stages whenever the fistulas are deep seated. For complex fistulas, the doctor would recommend invasive procedures like a Colostomy. Anal fistulas are more common in people with Crohn’s disease. For patients with both Crohn’s disease and a fistula, medical therapy is usually tried before surgery.
The latest trend in the medicine world – LASER.
The recent involvement of LASER in the field of proctological medical problems has revolutionized the treatment process in that it is minimally invasive and more often requires no hospitalization.
SURGERY DURATION
30 minutes
ANAESTHESIA
Spinal Block or general Anaesthesia
FULL RECOVERY (IN DAYS)
3 – 4 days
Get checked and get treated at the earliest. If you are looking for professional medical help, look no further. Book an appointment with our doctors at OneHealth hospital to know more and to discuss your treatment options.
