Fistula in Ano (Anal Fistula)

Fistula in Ano is a common anal condition that affects many people. It can be uncomfortable and painful, leading to severe complications if left untreated. Fortunately, several highly precise and effective treatment options are available at Apollo Hospitals, Karnataka, including surgery to remove the fistula and alleviate its symptoms.

What is Fistula in Ano?

Fistula in Ano, also known as anal fistula, is a medical condition where a small channel or tunnel forms between the end of the bowel and the skin around the anus. This channel is typically the result of an infection that starts in an anal gland and causes an abscess to form. When the abscess ruptures, it can create a passageway from the anal gland to the skin.

The symptoms of a Fistula in Ano can include pain, swelling, and discharge from the opening around the anus. In some cases, there may be recurrent infections, which can cause fever and other symptoms.

Types of Surgery Performed For Fistula in Ano at Apollo Hospitals, Karnataka

Several types of surgery can be used to remove a Fistula in Ano, depending on the location, complexity, and severity of the fistula. Some of the common surgical techniques include:

• Fistulotomy: This is the most common surgical procedure to remove a Fistula in Ano. During a fistulotomy, the surgeon makes a small incision near the fistula and then opens the channel to allow it to heal from the inside out. The fistulotomy is generally performed under general anaesthesia, and the patient will also have to stay in the hospital for a few days before and after the surgery.
• Seton Placement: In cases where the fistula is more complex or extends deep into the tissue, a seton may gradually stretch and widen the channel. A seton is a thin piece of material inserted into the channel and left in place for several weeks to several months to allow the tissue to heal around it.
• LIFT procedure: The LIFT (Ligation of the intersphincteric Fistula Tract) procedure is a minimally invasive surgical technique used to treat complex fistulas located deep in the tissue. During the LIFT procedure, the surgeon makes a small incision and removes the tissue surrounding the fistula to create a clean channel for healing.
• Fistula Plug Surgery: During a fistula plug procedure, a small biodegradable plug is inserted into the channel to help promote healing. This technique is often used in cases where the fistula is not too complex, and the surrounding tissue is healthy.

Benefits of Anal Fistula Surgery

Surgery has several advantages for treating anorectal fistulas, including:

• Improved bowel function
  For some people, a Fistula in Ano can lead to bowel incontinence, which can be socially and emotionally distressing. Surgery can help improve bowel function and reduce the risk of incontinence.

• Improved mental health:
  Living with a fistula as an adult can be emotionally draining, significantly if it interferes with daily life. By treating the condition through surgery, patients can experience a boost in mental health and quality of life.

• Reduced risk of complications:
  By removing the fistula, surgery can reduce the risk of complications associated with the condition, such as abscesses, sepsis, or other infections.

• Reduced pain and discomfort
  Fistulas in Ano can cause a lot of pain, discomfort, and other symptoms, such as drainage or abscesses. Surgery can alleviate these symptoms and improve the patient’s quality of life.

Treatment Procedure for Fistula in Ano at Apollo Hospitals, Karnataka

The treatment for an anal fistula typically involves a surgical intervention to remove the infected tissue and create a clean channel for healing. Our world-class surgeons may use several surgical procedures, and the choice of procedure will depend on the individual case and the severity of the fistula.

Before the procedure

The patient will typically be given instructions on preparing for surgery, including restrictions on eating and drinking. They may also be given antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection.

During the procedure

The patient will be given anaesthesia to ensure they are comfortable and pain-free. The surgeon will then make an incision to access the fistula, remove any infected tissue, and create a clean channel for healing. The specific technique will depend on the individual case, but options may include a fistulotomy, where the channel is cut open and allowed to heal from the inside out, or a fistula plug, where biological material is inserted into the channel to promote healing.

After the procedure

The patient will typically be monitored for some time to ensure they are recovering well. Pain medication may be provided to manage discomfort, and the patient may be given instructions on how to care for the surgical site to reduce the risk of infection. Recovery time can vary depending on the fistula size and how much surgery you had, but most patients can expect to resume normal activities within a few weeks of surgery. But in most cases, a fistula takes several weeks or months to heal completely.

Complications & Risks of Anal Fistula Surgery

While surgery is often necessary to treat a Fistula in Ano, there are risks and potential complications associated with the procedure. Some of the possible complications and risks include:

1. Bleeding: There may be bleeding during or after the surgery, requiring further medical attention.
2. Infection: Infection is a potential risk for any surgical procedure. Antibiotics are frequently prescribed to aid in the prevention of infection.
3. Pain: Pain is common after surgery, but it can be managed with medication.
4. Faecal incontinence: In rare cases, surgery can lead to faecal incontinence or loss of control over bowel movements.
5. Recurrence: Despite surgery, the fistula can sometimes recur, requiring further treatment. Fistula recurrence rates range from 7–21%, depending on the type of fistula and the surgery used to remove it.
6. Damage to the sphincter muscles: Depending on the location of the fistula and the surgical technique used, there is a risk of damage to the muscles that control bowel movements.

A team of medical experts can effectively treat Fistula in Ano with surgery. Apollo Hospitals, Karnataka, have highly skilled healthcare professionals who use cutting-edge techniques and technology to perform safe and effective surgeries. While there are risks associated with surgery, our team works closely with patients to minimise them and provide personalised care to help them make informed decisions. With the proper treatment, patients can experience relief from their symptoms and improved quality of life.

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of Fistula in Ano, schedule a consultation with one of our experienced healthcare providers at Apollo Hospitals, Karnataka, to discuss the available treatment options.