An anal fistula is a small tunnel that connects an abscess, an infected cavity in the anus, to an opening on the skin around the anus. The anus is the external opening through which feces are expelled from the body. Just inside the anus are a number of small glands that make mucus. Occasionally, these glands get clogged and can become infected, leading to an abscess. About half of these abscesses may develop into a fistula.
The leading causes of an anal fistula are clogged anal glands and anal abscesses. Other, much less common, conditions that can cause an anal fistula include:
The signs and symptoms of an Anal Fistula include:
When recovering from anal fistula treatment, make sure to take pain medicine as directed by your surgeon. Finish all your antibiotics. Don’t take any over-the-counter medicines without first talking with your provider. Other important instructions may include:
An anal fistula is a long-standing established infection of the anal region. Medicines cannot completely cure it. The fistula has to be treated up to its root, which is buried deep in the anal canal. The external pus discharging site is like a chimney. The actual stove is buried deep inside. Surgery is the best method for permanent cure. surgery may involve various procedures like LIFT, or fistulectomy. for complex fistulas seton use may solve the problem with minimal complications.
LASER surgery is a latest fad, but has its share of complications. it may involve watery discharge and persistence of symptoms.