5 Point Guide On Anal Fistula

Anal fistula is quite common in patients who have an abscess of the anal. It is formed within the skin, and also the opening of the muscle called the anus at the bottom of the intestinal tract. The majority of fistulas occur due to an inflammation that begins in the anal gland, which can cause an abscess. Anal fistulas usually require surgical intervention to treat it. This is best to visit a Fistula Doctor in Kolkata for treatment.

These are the types of fistulas based on the location they are located in. These include:

Inter-sphincteric fistula This is by far the most frequent type of anal fistula, which can be described as an unusual tract that occurs near the anus or the rectum. It’s located between the external and internal sphincter muscles and closes towards the anus.

Trans-sphincteric fistula The tract starts within the space between the external and internal muscles of the sphincter or in the space between the anus. It then opens out to the opening in the anterior. 

Supra-sphincteric Fistula: It opens upwards to an elevation over the puborectal muscle, and then opens outwards of the anus.

Extra-sphincteric Fistula: It is caused by abscess or Crohn’s Disease. It starts in the rectum and moves down and into the anus.

The causes of anal fistula

There are a variety of glands that release fluids, which can lead to clogging. This causes a mass of tissues that are infected and the fluid that is known in an abscess. The other reasons for anal fistula comprise:

• Trauma
• Sexually transmitted infections
• Tuberculosis
• Diverticulitis is a condition wherein small pouches are formed within the large intestine. It also is characterized by inflammation.
• Cancer
• An ongoing issue that impacts the bowel

The signs of anal fistula

• The signs of fistula anal are:
• Abscess in the anal frequently
• The swelling and pain are around the anus
• A foul, smelly discharge comes from an anus-related opening. As the fistula dries the pain can lessen.
• The skin is irritated around the anus due to drainage
• The pain that comes with bowel movements
• The pain of sitting
• Bleeding
• Feeling of chills, fever and chills as well as feeling of fatigue

How can you tell if there is anal fistula?

A few fistulas are easy to identify, and others can heal themselves. In the beginning, doctors usually detect anal fistulas by looking at the region around the anus. Additionally, the doctor will look at the area that has an opening on the skin, and fluid that is leaking. The Best Fistula Specialist Doctor in Kolkata could insert the finger inside the anus for diagnosis. The doctor may request that you take imaging tests like radiographs or CT scans or even colonoscopy. Also, colonoscopy can be the process in which the doctor inserts the camera in the colon via the anus in order to view the colon. The surgeon performs the procedure under anesthesia.

What are the options for treatment in the case of anal fistula?

An anal fistula is usually time treatable by surgery. The procedure is intended to treat the fistula as well as protect the sphincter muscles that could cause incontinence in the event of any injury. The surgeon performs surgery to treat anal fistula with general anesthesia. The laser surgery procedure is considered to be the newest treatment. The laser probe is inserted deep inside the canal of the fistula, destroying the epithelium of the fistula and taking out the tract. There are many reasons to choose laser therapy over other techniques:

A minimally invasive procedure that is minimally invasive

Quick recovery

Return to normal activities in two days

No restrictions post-surgery

The most common procedures are:

Fistulotomy in which there are no or tiny sphincter muscles. In this case, the skin that covers the tunnel will be cut to transform it into an open groove. This will heal the fistula from top to bottom.

Lift procedure in which the skin around the fistula gets opened. The muscles of the sphincter are stretched and surgeons secure them.

Recovery following the operation

In addition, following the procedure, your surgeon might ask you to take a sitz bath, which is a warm bath that soaks the area that has been affected. The doctor may suggest laxatives or stool softeners along with painkillers following the procedure. The only thing you need to do is follow the directions of your doctor to speed up recovery. So, if you do this, your fistula may not recur. In addition, if you want to learn more about the issue and laser surgery to treat anal fistulas, talk to an expert in Kolkata. And follow this blog for more updates.