Contents:
- Medical Video: IBD Surgery: Perianal abscess and fistula
- AWhat's the anal fistula surgery?
- When do I need to have anal fistula surgery?
- What should I know before undergoing anal fistula surgery?
The difference between anal fissure and anal fistula
The anal fissure is a tear while the fistula is the opening or 'tunnel' between your skin and your rectum.
- Are there alternatives to surgery?
- What should I do before anal fistula surgery?
- What is the process of anal fistula surgery?
Surgery usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.
To reduce the risk of intestinal incontinence (when you defecate involuntarily) treatment may involve several operations over several months.
The type of operation you need will depend on where the fistula is located.
If the fistula is below or crosses the lower part of the sphincter muscle, your surgeon will cut open the fistula on your skin and leave the wound open so that it can heal with healthy new tissue.
If the fistula has a branch that passes through the upper part of the sphincter muscle, your surgeon can place a special suture (called a seton stitch) in the fistula to allow pus to flow easily.
Fistulas may be suitable for treatment with plugs made from pig intestinal tissue. Your surgeon does not need to make an incision in the sphincter muscle.
If the fistula reaches the upper part of your sphincter muscle, you may need to have a temporary colostomy (the large intestine is left open from your skin). However, this is unusual.
- What should I do after anal fistula surgery?
Regular exercise will help you to return to normal activities as quickly as possible. Before you start exercising, ask your health team or doctor for advice.
Complications
What complications can occur?- Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Medical Video: IBD Surgery: Perianal abscess and fistula
Definition
AWhat's the anal fistula surgery?
An fistula is an abnormal connection between the lining inside the anal canal (the back) and the skin near your anus.
Most anal fistulas are caused by abscesses (a collection of pus) that have accumulated in your anal canal. Pus can come out by yourself through your skin or by surgery. Fistulas occur when the pathway made by pus travels to the surface of your skin, remains open and won't close.
When do I need to have anal fistula surgery?
An anal fistula develops between the skin around the anus. Fistula ani surgery (sometimes called anal fistula repair surgery) is an operation to close this hole.
Prevention & warning
What should I know before undergoing anal fistula surgery?
Anal fistula surgery is common and is usually safe. But to make a decision and give your consent, you must be aware of the possible side effects and the risk of complications. For a small number of people, fistulas can return after surgery.
The difference between anal fissure and anal fistula
The anal fissure is a tear while the fistula is the opening or 'tunnel' between your skin and your rectum.
It is important for you to know the warnings and precautions before carrying out this operation. If you have questions, consult your doctor for further information and instructions.
Are there alternatives to surgery?
Surgery is the standard treatment for anal fistulas. This is because your fistula may not heal without treatment.
If you have Crohn's disease along with anal fistula, you may be offered a combination of medical and surgical treatments, depending on your individual circumstances.
Process
What should I do before anal fistula surgery?
You may be given an enema an hour or more before your surgery to empty your lower intestine before surgery.
This surgery is usually done when you are under general anesthesia. You must be given clear instructions before the operation, including whether you can eat before the surgery schedule. In most cases, you should start fasting about six hours before the procedure begins. You might be able to drink fluids, like coffee, until a few hours before your surgery.
- What is the process of anal fistula surgery?
Surgery usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.
To reduce the risk of intestinal incontinence (when you defecate involuntarily) treatment may involve several operations over several months.
The type of operation you need will depend on where the fistula is located.
If the fistula is below or crosses the lower part of the sphincter muscle, your surgeon will cut open the fistula on your skin and leave the wound open so that it can heal with healthy new tissue.
If the fistula has a branch that passes through the upper part of the sphincter muscle, your surgeon can place a special suture (called a seton stitch) in the fistula to allow pus to flow easily.
Fistulas may be suitable for treatment with plugs made from pig intestinal tissue. Your surgeon does not need to make an incision in the sphincter muscle.
If the fistula reaches the upper part of your sphincter muscle, you may need to have a temporary colostomy (the large intestine is left open from your skin). However, this is unusual.
What should I do after anal fistula surgery?
You can go home the same day or the day after.
Rest for a few days, and walk as little as possible to help the wound heal. Wounds often take several weeks to heal completely and you may need to wear sanitary napkins until healed.
Regular exercise will help you to return to normal activities as quickly as possible. Before you start exercising, ask your health team or doctor for advice.
If you have questions relating to the process of this test, consult your doctor for a better understanding.
Complications
What complications can occur?
General complications:
- pain
- bleeding
- unsightly scars
Certain complications:
- difficulty urinating
- involuntarily throw away the wind or defecate
- bowel incontinence
If you have questions about possible complications, please consult your doctor for more information.
