An anal fistula is a small channel that develops between the end of the bowel and the skin near the anus. While small, these conditions can cause profound pain and discomfort in anyone affected. Over time, a fistula can worsen, causing even greater pain and the chance for a serious infection. Thankfully, there are numerous medical treatments for fistulas available today.
While each patient has his or her own unique needs that dictate the right treatment, anal fistulotomies are frequently the best treatment for the condition. Countless patients have experienced the relief and healing only possible through undergoing the fistulotomy surgical procedure. Knowing what is involved in an anal fistulotomy and how it can specifically help you can be a great aid in choosing the right treatment to end your painful condition.
The Help of an Anal Fistulotomy
Fistulas cause so many difficulties for patients because they cannot heal on their own and only worsen if left alone. As such, a fistulotomy is aimed at forcing the condition to heal as quickly as possible. During this surgical procedure, a colorectal surgeon will open up the fistula and then scrape and flush out the infected tissue inside. By doing so, the source of pain is removed from the body completely.
Depending on a patient’s unique circumstances, the anal fistula may be “laid open” so that it heals from the inside out. Additional suture material may be left in the fistula tract to act as a seton, which aids in the healing process. In any of these cases, the fistula itself is rid of infection and forced to heal in ways that it could not by itself.
Thanks to today’s minimally invasive surgical procedures, healing from a fistulotomy will often only take a few weeks, depending on the surgery needed. Medical professionals may prescribe stool softeners and antibiotics to prevent infection and aid in the healing process, while follow-up appointments will be used to make sure the fistula is healing properly.
Fistulotomies are complex surgical procedures that can yield great results for a patient when performed correctly. As such, it is vital that anyone seeking out medical treatment find an experienced colorectal surgeon with a track record of success.
Putting an End to Anal Fistulas
If you have been diagnosed with an anal fistula or believe that you are currently being affected by the condition, know that your suffering does not need to continue. The skilled team of doctors at the Fissure & Fistula Center of Excellence has helped countless patients put an end to their conditions with treatments tailored to each person’s unique needs. To schedule an appointment and learn more about how we can help you begin recovering as soon as possible, call 888.512.2312 today.
