Fistula

What is a fistula?

An abnormal connection between two structures. It is an infected tunnel between the skin and the anal canal. Most anal fistulas are the result of an infection in an anal gland that spreads to the skin.

What are the symptoms?

Typically patients present with frequent anal abscesses, pain and swelling around the anus, bloody or foul-smelling drainage (pus) from an opening around the anus. The pain may decrease after the fistula drains. There may be irritation of the skin around the anus from drainage associated with pain with bowel movements with or without bleeding. Fever, chills and a general feeling of fatigue often ensues.

What are the treatment options?

Treatment is exclusively surgical. Surgical approaches include conventional open excision of the fistulous tract or by using a laser probe reducing the pain to a considerable extent along with a shorter post surgery recovery period.