FISTULA IN ANO
A fistula in ano is an abnormal tunnel or tract that forms between the anal canal or rectum and the skin around the anus. It usually develops as a result of an infection or abscess that has not healed properly, causing a channel to form between the infected area and the skin. The channel can sometimes become filled with pus, causing pain and discomfort.
Causes
- Fistulas can be caused by a variety of factors
- Including inflammatory bowel disease
- Infections such as tuberculosis or sexually transmitted infections
- Trauma or injury to the anal area, and certain medical procedures
Symptoms
The symptoms of a fissure in ano can vary from person to person, but some common signs and symptoms may include:
- Pain and discomfort: A fistula in ano can cause pain and discomfort, especially when sitting, standing, or having a bowel movement.
- Swelling: The area around the anus may become swollen or tender.
- Drainage: A fistula can produce a discharge of pus, blood, or feces from an opening near the anus.
- Itching or irritation: The skin around the anus may become irritated or itchy due to the drainage.
- Recurrent infections: Fistulas can become infected, leading to the development of an abscess.
- Fever: If the fistula becomes infected, it can cause fever and general malaise
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of a fistula in ano usually begins with a physical examination by a surgeon. Additional diagnostic tests may be needed to confirm the diagnosis and determine the location and severity of the fistula.
These tests may include:
- Anoscopy: A small, flexible tube with a light on the end is inserted into the anus to examine the rectum and anal canal for signs of a fistula.
- Imaging tests: X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound may be used to get a better view of the fistula and determine its location and extent.
- Fistulography: This is a specialized X-ray or MRI that uses a contrast dye to help visualize the fistula.
- Biopsy: A small tissue sample may be taken from the area around the fistula to rule out other possible conditions.
Treatment
Fistula in Ano seldom heals without surgery.
- Antibiotics: If the fistula is infected, antibiotics may be prescribed to control the infection and prevent it from spreading.
- Surgery: Surgery is usually the most effective treatment for a fistula in ano. The type of surgery depends on the location and complexity of the fistula. Some surgical options include:
- Fistulotomy: This involves cutting the fistula open to allow it to heal from the inside out. This is the most common surgical option.
- Fistulectomy: This involve removing the whole tract with partial closure of the wound
- Seton placement: This involves placing a small rubber band or string (seton) through the fistula to keep it open and allow it to heal slowly over time.
- Advancement flap surgery: This involves using nearby tissue to cover and seal the fistula.
Latest Treatment For Fistula
There have been several recent advances in the treatment of fistula in ano, including the use of new surgical techniques and technologies. Here are some of the latest treatment options:
- LIFT (Ligation of Intersphincteric Fistula Tract): This is a minimally invasive surgical technique that involves creating a small incision in the skin to access the fistula tract, then using a special tool to ligate (tie off) the tract and remove it. This technique is less invasive than traditional surgery and has a shorter recovery time.
- VAAFT (Video-Assisted Anal Fistula Treatment): This is a minimally invasive surgical technique that uses a small camera to visualize the fistula tract and a special tool to remove it. This technique has a high success rate and a shorter recovery time than traditional surgery.
- Biologics: These are medications that target specific proteins in the body to control inflammation and promote healing. Biologics may be used in combination with surgery to improve outcomes and reduce the risk of recurrence.
- Laser ablation: This involves using a laser to burn or destroy the fistula tract. The goal of this treatment is to seal the tract and promote healing. However, this method has been associated with a high risk of recurrence.
it’s important to note that healing of a fistula in ano can take several weeks or even months , and may require multiple procedures.
Advantages of Laser Surgery
How is laser surgery better than conventional surgery?
Laser surgery or laser therapy is a day-care procedure that offers several advantages over traditional surgery. Compared to banding surgery, laser effectively treats hemorrhoids, improves symptoms and reduces post-operative pain. Similar benefits are seen for patients with severe anal spasms, external thrombosis, fissure, and sentinel tags, fistula & varicose veins due to ever-growing advantages, namely:
- Less operation time, discharge within a few hours
- Back to routine life in 3-5 days
- Greater surgical precision
- Sutureless treatment with no scars
- Fastest recovery as there are
- No cuts or stitches
- Quick relief from the symptoms
- Less blood loss during surgery
- No or minimal post-operative pain
- Reduced risk of infection
- Reduced risk of rectal stenosis or prolapse
- Aesthetically the best procedures – helps as a confidence-booster for the patient.
- The anal sphincter action is well preserved, (no chances of incontinence fecal leak).
- Least recurrence rates
- Fewer doctor visits post-surgery
- High success rates
- No need for general anesthesia. Local or spinal anesthesia is applicable for this surgery
Prevention
- Getting plenty of — especially from fruits and vegetables– can help prevent constipation.
- Stay hydrated. That can help you prevent constipation
- Exercise. One of the most common causes of constipation is a lack of physical activity.
- Don’t ignore your urge to go
Practice healthy bowel habits. These tips can help lessen constipation and strain on the anal canal. Check these habits regularly to lower your risk of getting a painful anal fissure:
- When using the bathroom, give yourself enough time to pass bowel movements comfortably. But don’t sit on the toilet too long.
- Don’t strain while passing stools.
- Keep the anal area dry.
- Gently clean yourself after each bowel movement.
- Use soft, dye-free, and scent-free toilet paper or wipes.
- Get treatment for ongoing diarrhea.
Have Questions? Get in touch!
Adjoining More Supermarket,
Jalandhar 144022
Have Questions? Get in touch!
Adjoining More Supermarket,
Jalandhar 144022,(Punjab),INDIA