Description

An anal fistula ( Bhagandar / Fistula in ano ) is a small channel that develops between the end of the bowel and the skin around the anus. It frequently is the result of a previous or current anal abscess. Fistula has a tract with two openings - Internal opening into the rectum or anal canal and External opening through the skin of the buttocks. Causes of Anal Fistula Formation: A) Anorectal abscess – Almost all anal fistulas are a result of a preceding anorectal abscess. An anorectal abscess begins as an infection of one of the anal glands. The infection soon forms a pool of pus – abscess. An anal fistula results when the abscess fails to heal completely with/without treatment. B) Conditions that cause inflammation of the intestines like Crohn’s disease, Diverticulitis. C) Malignancy Or Cancer in the anorectal region. D) Infections – Tuberculosis, HIV, sexually transmitted disease. E) Iatrogenic – As a complication of a previous surgery in the region. Symptoms of Anal Fistula 1) Throbbing pain that worsens on sitting. 2) Swelling, tenderness, itching or redness around the anus. 3) Discharge of pus, blood and debris which is usually foul smelling. 4) Pain associated with bowel movements. 5) May be associated with Fever. Diagnosis Of Anal Fistula: * Usually a brief history followed by clinical evaluation - including a digital rectal examination is enough to diagnose an anal fistula. At the same time Proctoscopy ( a minor inspection of the rectum using a small tube like scope ) is also done to check for any concomitant condition in the rectum. * An MRI Fistulogram may be needed for complicated fistulas in which the tract is difficult to delineate. Fistulography, an X-Ray of the fistula after injecting a contrast solution is not done any longer as it may lead to the formation of a false tract due to forceful injection of the dye. Advanced Laser Treatment for Anal Fistula: Fistula is a complex disease. Ultimately the aim of any fistula treatment is not just to get rid of the existing fistula but: 1. To save the sphincter muscle and thus prevent incontinence. 2. To prevent recurrence, considering the nature of the disease. Laser fistula surgery, also known as FiLaC (Fistula-tract Laser Closure) and Distal Laser Proximal Ligation ( DLPL ) are minimally invasive procedure used to treat anal fistulas by using laser energy to close the fistula tract. It's an alternative to traditional fistulotomy, which involves cutting open the fistula. Laser surgery for fistulas is generally considered safe and effective, with a shorter recovery time and less pain compared to traditional surgery. How it works: A small probe is inserted into the fistula tract, guided by an endoscope or other imaging techniques. Laser energy is delivered radially to the fistula tract. The laser's heat energy vaporizes and destroys the abnormal tissues within the fistula, promotes healing, thus helps to seal it off. Benefits of Laser Treatment over conventional methods in the case of Anal Fistula: A) Minimally invasive, requiring smaller incisions and less tissue damage. B) Shorter recovery time compared to traditional surgery. C) Less pain and discomfort. D) May reduce the risk of recurrence. Considerations: Laser treatment may not be suitable for all types of fistulas, particularly those that are recurrent, very high or complex. It may take 6-8 weeks for anal fistula to completely heal. Take complete rest for the first 24 hours after surgery. You can gradually resume your daily chores and most people are back to their normal activities in 5-7 days. A successful outcome of the treatment depends as much on the patient's cooperation and self-care, as on the surgeon's skill. 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 Fistula 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 all kinds of Anal Fistula. # Dr. Brijendra Singh is an Internationally Trained Doctor and Specialist for colorectal diseases like Anal Fistula. # We use internationally approved techniques only for the treatment of Anal Fistula 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.