Description

An anal fissure or Fissure-in-ano is a small tear in the lining of the anus, often caused by passing hard stools or straining during bowel movements. It can cause pain, especially during and after bowel movements, and may be accompanied by bleeding. The condition affects men and women equally and can occur at any age ( infants too ). A fissure which is present for less than 6 weeks is called an Acute fissure. That which is more than 6 weeks old is called a Chronic fissure. The Chronic fissure is usually hard to feel and may have a skin tag like growth called Sentinel Pile. Here's a more detailed explanation: Causes: 1) Constipation and straining: Hard stools can tear the delicate anal lining. 2) Low-fiber diet: This can lead to constipation and increased straining. 3) Passing hard or large stools: These can traumatize the anal mucosa. 4) Diarrhoea - The frequent forceful bowel movement causes tearing of the anal skin. 5) Iatrogenic - A tear may occur during insertion of a rectal thermometer, USG probe, endoscope, enema tube. 6) Childbirth - Most common amongst women. 7) Anal sex - Commonly encountered in homosexuals. 8) Rare causes - Crohn's disease, leukaemia, tuberculosis, sexually transmitted diseases, viral infections etc. Symptoms of Anal Fissure: A) Sharp, cutting, or burning pain during bowel movements: This is the most common symptom. B) Pain that can last for minutes to hours after bowel movements. The pain can be felt in the anus, buttocks, or upper thighs. C) Bright red blood on the stool or toilet paper: This is often seen after bowel movements. D) Visible tear or crack in the skin around the anus: This is sometimes visible upon examination. E) Need to strain while passing stools - This is because the anal sphincter goes into a spasm. F) Pruritus ani - Itching in the anal region. G) Sentinel pile - In long standing cases, a skin tag like growth can be felt at the edge of the fissure. Diagnosis Of Anal Fissure: A history of your symptoms followed by external inspection of the anus is enough to confirm the diagnosis. Also doctor may advice you other tests to rule out any suspected underlying cause for the fissure. Treatment: Home remedies: i) Increasing fiber intake, taking warm baths, and using gentle cleansing wipes can help with healing. ii) Medications: In some cases, medications like stool softeners, pain relievers, or topical creams may be prescribed. iii) Surgery: In rare cases, surgery may be needed if the fissure doesn't heal with other treatments. Laser treatment for anal fissures is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that uses a laser to create an incision in the anal sphincter muscle, helping to relax the muscle and promote healing of the fissure. This approach aims to reduce pain and scarring, and may offer faster recovery times compared to traditional surgical methods. How it works: 1) Minimally Invasive: The procedure involves using a laser probe to create a controlled incision in the anal sphincter muscle, rather than a traditional cut with a scalpel. 2) Relaxation: The laser incision helps to relax the sphincter muscle, which can be in a state of spasm and contribute to the fissure. 3) Healing: By relaxing the sphincter, the fissure can heal more effectively as it is no longer under tension or irritated by spasms. 4) Reduced Pain and Scarring: The laser can also help to minimize bleeding and scarring, leading to less post-operative pain and a more comfortable recovery. Benefits of Laser treatment of Anal Fissure: 1) Less Pain: Patients may experience less pain after laser treatment compared to traditional surgery. 2) Faster Recovery: Recovery times are generally shorter, allowing patients to return to their normal activities sooner. 3) Reduced Scarring: The laser can minimize tissue damage and scarring. 4) High Success Rate: Laser treatment has a high success rate in treating anal fissures, with many patients experiencing long-term relief. Considerations: Anaesthesia: The procedure is typically performed under local or general anaesthesia. Outpatient Procedure: Laser treatment is usually an outpatient procedure, meaning patients can typically go home the same day. Cost: The cost of laser treatment can vary depending on the facility and other factors. In summary, laser treatment for anal fissures is a safe and effective minimally invasive procedure that can offer significant benefits for patients suffering from this painful condition. When to see a doctor: If you experience persistent pain, bleeding, or other symptoms that don't improve with home care. Do not wait or try anything at this stage and rush to your doctor as soon as possible for accurate diagnosis and treatment. This is for informational purposes only. For medical advice or diagnosis, consult Dr. Brijendra Singh at Brij Laser And Laparoscopy Centre. Highlights of our Anal Fissure Laser Treatments at Brij Laser And Laparoscopy Centre: # Our Methods are Quick, Minimal-Invasive, That Means minimum to nil Bleed, Cuts and Scars. # Our Treatments are Fully Covered under Mediclaim. # Our Methods are proven both Safe and Effective. # We provide solutions to acute as well as chronic stages of Anal Fissures. # Dr. Brijendra Singh is an Internationally Trained Doctor and Specialist for colorectal diseases like Anal Fissure. # We use internationally approved techniques only for the treatment of Anal Fissure and other colorectal diseases. # we prefer customized care tailored to each patient's unique needs. # Dedicated support throughout diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. # High success rates ensuring long-lasting relief and satisfaction. # We aim for same day discharge @ convenience and comfort of the patient.