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ANAL FISTULA REPAIR SURGERY

What is a Fistula?

An anal fistula occurs when a hole/passage forms between the skin around the anus and inside the anus. Or we can simply say that fistulas occur after an abscess is formed due to an infection which generally results when the glands which produces fluid in the anus gets blocked. A bacteria buildup can create a swollen pocket of infected tissue and liquid.Once the abscess drains out, the chanel for this drainage then stays open and fuses to a hole around the skin surrounding the anus.

What Causes Anal Fistula?

The major cause of an anal fistula is anal abscesses, infection and an obstruction in the anal glands. Other causes in peculiar situations includes;

STI's and STDs
Cancer
Crohn's disease
Radiotherapy
Injury/Trauma
Tuberculosis
Inflammatory disease of the large intestine

What is the Diagnosis for Anal Fistula?

A physical examination by the Doctor is used to have a look at the area around and inside your anus. Also a device known as the fistula probe is used to check for the fistula as this is ncessary for important for proper treatment. An MRI scan, fistulography and an endoscopic ultrasound may help to identify the fistula tunnel help to see clear and detailed images of the sphincter muscle as well as other areas around the pelvic floor.

Anal Fistula treatment in Nigeria

Fistula tracts must be treated else a person may risks having other complications like cancer, damage to the sphincter muscles leading to incontigence of faeces and so on. The type of treatment for the fistula is determined by the location,cause and severity of the fistula. The treatments are usually done to repair the anal fistula. The treatment options we profer would usually include; fistulotomy, ligation of the intersphinteric fistula tract (LIFT) and endorectal advancement flap.

What is Fistulotomy?

A fistulotomy is the surgery done to repair a fistula. This is done by taking out the infected tissue, eliminating the tunnel and stitching it back in position.

Endorectal advancement flap treatment of anal fistula

Here the surgeon generates a flap from the rectal wall which is in turn used is to permanently seal the repair. This procedure can reduce the amount of sphincter muscle taken out.

Ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT)

LIFT treatment is done for complex or deep fistulas. This Surgery gives the surgeon access to the fistula between the anal sphincter muscles. A silk or latex string is positioned into the fistula tunnel, forcing it to become over time. After sometime, the surgeon proceeds to take out the infected tissue and seals up the fistula opening.

Other anal fissure repair solutions include seton placement, fibrin glue and collagen plug, ostomy and stoma and muscle flap repair.

What are the symptoms of anal fistula?

Swellings and pains around the anus

Discharge of blood from the anus

Bowel incontigency (issues controlling bowel movement)

Discharge of pus or smelly fluid from the anus

Constant serious pain when sitting or trying to get around

How to prevent anal fistula

The preventive measures to avoid getting a fistula are usually centered around lifestyle modifications in simple day-to-day activities. Some of which include;

Regular exercises

Maintaining good hygiene especially around the anal region

Regular intake of fibre rich diets

Do not force stools as this may lead to strains

consume more water

Avoid diets that may result in constipation

What is the cost of anal fistula surgery

Anal fistula repair surgery costs depends on various factors like;

1. Type of surgery

2. Severity of fistula

3. Age and gender of the patient

4. Location and choice of the Hospital

5. Experience of Surgeon

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)

1. How can I cure my fistula without surgery?

There is hardly ever a cure for fistula without surgery as it involves total repair but less invasive treatments for fistula are available. However, you will need to speak to the Doctor to discuss available options.

2. Is fistula permanently curable?

Surgical repair is the permanent treatment for fistulas.

3. Where are most fistulas most commonly found?

Fistulas can develop almost anywhere as they are simply an abnormal connection that links and fuses together two vessels.

4. How much does it cost to remove a fistulain Nigeria?

This depends upon certain factors ranging from the severity of the fistula and location of the fistula among others.

5. Which treatment is best for fistula?

Surgical repair is the best and permanent treatment for fistula.

Disclaimer: The information provided herein is for patient general knowledge only and should not be used during any medical emergency, diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. Duplication for personal and commercial use must be authorized in writing by Surjen.com.

Piles surgery costs dpends upon various factors like;

1. Type of surgery choosen

2. Age and gender of the patient

3. Location and choice of the Hospital

4. Expereince of Surgeon