Perianal Fistula
Treatment Duration
60
Anal Fistula
A anal fistula is a persistent, bothersome condition in the anus area that is usually treated with subtle surgery.
What is a Anal Fistula?
A anal fistula is a small "tunnel" that connects an infected gland inside the anus to an opening in the perianal area. Its treatment is most often surgical although non-surgical methods are often an option.
Anal Fistula & Cause
Most of the time a anal fistula is created by an infection, which starts in a tiny anal gland. Also certain diseases or medical conditions can increase the risk of developing an anal fistula, such as:
- Crohn's disease.
- Colitis.
- Radiotherapy for the treatment of rectal cancer.
- Chronic diarrhea.
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Anal Fistula & Symptoms
The main symptoms of a anal fistula, which often appear suddenly, include:
- Pain and swelling around the anus area.
- Skin irritation and drainage.
- Pain with bowel movements.
- Feeling tired and unwell or fever.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of the anal fistula by the surgeon is particularly important for the treatment that will follow. The doctor will carefully examine the area around the anus, while if the diagnosis is not clear or if the fistula is complex, he may request additional tests such as:
- Proctoscopy which will examine the inside of the anus.
- Ultrasound or MRI to get a better picture of the fistula.
The clear "course" in the perianal fistula is decisive for its effective treatment.
Most often the anal fistula is detected by the doctor based on clinical symptoms.
In the case of an abscess, the indication for surgical treatment is immediate.
Treatment
The treatment of a anal fistula is surgery, the main goal of which is to remove the fistula while protecting the anal sphincter.
Depending on the outlet, location and complexity of the anal fistula, the surgeon has a variety of less or more invasive techniques that she can use depending on the location and characteristics of each fistula.
In any case, the surgeon must have the appropriate expertise and experience, so that the operations are successful without affecting the normal functioning of the intestine.
Anal Fistula and Nutrition
Diet plays an important role in the management of anal fistula. Constipation worsens the condition, while proper hydration, a high-fiber diet, and avoiding large meals can help.
In addition, nutrition also contributes to the post-operative recovery of the anal fistula, helping the good functioning of the intestine.
Advice after the Intervention
It usually takes a few days after the operation to feel better, and the doctor will give you advice about returning to work, driving, sex, etc.
The care of the area after the operation is decisive for its success. The doctor will give you specific instructions on how to treat the area with warm baths and keep it clean, hydrate your body and use stool softeners for a period of time.
He will also recommend painkillers if you are in pain.
If the periodontal fistula and abscess are treated properly, then the periodontal fistula will probably not bother you again.
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