An anal fistula is a unique opening that connects the inside of your anus to the skin around it. This problem frequently results in persistent pain, discharge, and recurrent infections that don’t go away with conventional treatment. Knowing what to expect and your surgical options will help you feel less anxious and have better results if you have this issue.
What Causes Anal Fistulas
Anal fistulas form after an anal abscess – a painful buildup of pus near the anus. When the abscess drains or a doctor drains it, it can leave behind a channel that doesn’t heal properly. Other causes include inflammatory bowel disease, injury, or prior anal operations.
The main signs include ongoing discharge of pus or blood recurring pain and swelling, and holes on the skin close to your anus. These symptoms get better without surgery.
Types of Surgical Procedures
Depending on their location and degree of intricacy, fistulas can be treated surgically in a number of ways. Fistulotomy is a frequent procedure that involves cutting open the fistula tract to allow for internal healing. This method has a decent success rate and performs effectively in simple instances.
Placing a Seton, which entails putting in thin drainage tubes and letting the fistula heal gradually over a few months, is a further alternative. Although it takes longer to treat, this approach is safer for more complex muscle-related fistulas.
Surgeons may employ sophisticated methods such as flap repairs or LIFT (Ligation of Intersphincteric Fistula Tract) in more complicated cases. The goal of these techniques is to seal the fistula while maintaining intestinal control.
Choosing the Right Surgeon in Singapore
Excellent medical care is available in Singapore, where skilled colorectal surgeons with expertise in treating anal fistulas are available. Seek out surgeons with a great deal of experience performing these surgeries and who are board certified. Singapore’s leading surgeons employ the newest surgical methods and have received training abroad.
Take into account elements such as the surgeon’s communication style, patient testimonials, and success rates. Never be afraid to get second views, particularly in circumstances that are complicated. The surgeon should thoroughly go over all of your options with you and assist you in weighing the advantages and disadvantages of each strategy.
What to Expect During Treatment
You will have consultations to talk over your options and have any required testing done before surgery. Although complicated situations may necessitate overnight stays, the majority of treatments are performed as day surgery under general anesthetic.
Within weeks following anal fistula surgery, patients usually report a considerable reduction in their symptoms. However, depending on the surgical method, full recovery may take several months.
Healing and Aftercare
Effective post-operative care is essential for positive results. You must take your medications as directed, maintain the surgery site clean, and adhere to activity limitations. Heavy lifting should be avoided for a longer period of time, although most patients can return to work after 1-2 weeks.
Although harsher medicines may be administered initially, over-the-counter medications are typically used to manage discomfort. Warm sitz baths promote healing and comfort.
Long-Term Prospects
Anal fistula surgery often has a high success rate, with the majority of patients reporting a permanent improvement in their symptoms. Your chances of mending successfully and avoiding recurrence are greatly increased by carefully following your surgeon’s instructions and practicing proper hygiene.
Frequent follow-up consultations aid in tracking your development and identifying any possible issues early.
