Get a Surgery Care for Fistula Surgery

An anal fistula is a small tunnel that develops between the end of the bowel and the skin near the anus. It is usually caused by an infection near the anus, which results in a collection of pus (abscess) in the nearby tissue. If left untreated, the abscess can burst, leading to the formation of a fistula. Most anal fistulas require surgery as they rarely heal if left untreated. The main surgical options for treating an anal fistula include fistulotomy, seton procedures, and bioprosthetic plug insertion. A fistulotomy involves cutting open the whole length of the fistula so it heals. This procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia and requires a few weeks of recovery time. A seton procedure involves placing a piece of surgical thread called a seton in the fistula to help it heal. The seton is left in place for several weeks or months until the fistula has healed. Recovery from fistula surgery usually takes several weeks, and patients may experience some pain and discomfort during this time. Pain medication can be prescribed to manage the pain. Patients should also follow a healthy diet and avoid constipation to promote healing. It is important to avoid strenuous activities during the recovery period to prevent complications.