FISTULA

WHAT IS AN ANAL FISTULA?

Anal fistula is an abnormal connection forming a tract or tunnel between the anal canal and the skin around the anus.

WHAT CAUSES A FISTULA?

A fistula is caused by an abscess in the wall of the anal canal which points and drains through the perianal skin.

PROBLEMS DUE TO FISTULA

IF LEFT UNTREATED

Development of many more opening (fistulae) around the original one making surgery more and more difficult.
Recurrence of these abscesses leads to chronic pain and discomfort at the perianal site.
Chance of the infection spreading throughout the body leading to fever, chills etc.

INVESTIGATIONS

Local examination of the fistula site is done. In cases when the fistula is at a higher level, fistulogram is advised. Discuss this with your doctor.

TREATMENT

If there is active infection in the fistula, it is treated with antibiotics before surgery.
This is a small surgery without any risk. It only involves excision of the fistulous tract.
The surgical wound is not stitched up.
Recurrence is fairly uncommon.

INSTRUCTIONS AFTER SURGERY

Hospitalization for 2 days.
Take bath on the second day.
Pain, discomfort, and some discharge from the site are expected for about 7-10 days after the surgery.
The wound takes about a month to heal completely because it is not stitched and it has no heal from the bottom.
You will have come back for daily dressings for 7 days to promote healing from within.
You are advised to take a Sitz bath, that is, sit in a tub of warm water with potassium permanganate in it 2-3 times every day for 20 minutes. This keeps the area clean and is also very sooting.