Laser Surgery: Piles, Fissures, Fistula in Ahmedabad

Fistula

Pilonidal Sinus Animated image

What is a Fistula?

A fistula is an abnormal connection or tunnel that forms between two organs or tissues in the body, often between the rectum and the skin around the anus. This condition can be painful and may lead to infections if not treated properly. Fistulas are typically the result of an abscess that did not heal correctly and can vary in complexity based on their location and severity.

CAUSES

Several factors can contribute to the development of a fistula, including:

Chronic Infections: A fistula often forms when an abscess does not heal properly, leaving an open tract behind.
Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD) Conditions like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis increase the risk of developing fistulas due to chronic inflammation of the digestive tract.
Trauma or Surgery: Injury to the anal or rectal region, including surgery, can lead to fistula formation.
Tuberculosis:In some cases, tuberculosis infection can cause fistula development.
Radiation Therapy: Radiation treatment for cancers in the pelvic area may lead to tissue damage, increasing the risk of fistula formation.
Cancer:In rare cases, fistulas may form due to cancerous growth in the rectal area.

Pilonidal Sinus Real Img 1

Pilonidal Sinus Real Img 2

Pilonidal Sinus Real Img 3

Symptoms

A fistula can cause various symptoms, which may be constant or intermittent. These include:

Pain: Sharp or throbbing pain near the anal region, especially when sitting or during bowel movements.
Swelling and Redness:Inflammation or a lump near the anus that may become red and tender.
Discharge: Pus, blood, or foul-smelling discharge from an external opening near the anus.
Itching or Irritation: Constant irritation or itching around the anal area due to the discharge.
Recurrent Abscesses: Fistulas often form after repeated abscesses, which can flare up multiple times if left untreated.
Fever:In more severe cases, an infection in the fistula may cause fever.

Treatment

The treatment approach for fistula depends on its complexity, location, and the patient’s overall health. Here are the common treatment options:

Incision and Drainage (I&D): For a simple fistula, an incision may be made to drain the pus, relieving symptoms. Antibiotics might be prescribed if there's an infection.

Fistulectomy
- Complete removal of the fistula tract, reducing the chance of recurrence.
- Effective for treating persistent or complex fistulas.
- Longer healing time due to tissue removal.
- Higher risk of scarring and potential complications, including incontinence if the sphincter is affected.
Fistulotomy This is the most common procedure for treating a fistula. The surgeon opens the fistula tract, allowing it to heal from the inside out.
- Effective for simple, superficial fistulas.
- Short recovery time with minimal scarring.
- Not suitable for complex or deep fistulas.
- Risk of affecting continence in cases involving the sphincter muscles.
Seton Placement: A thin, flexible surgical thread (seton) is placed into the fistula to allow continuous drainage and help the tract close over time.
- Effective for complex or high fistulas.
- Minimizes the risk of incontinence by avoiding damage to the sphincter muscles.
- Requires multiple visits for tightening or adjustments.
- Long healing process.
Advancement Flap Procedure: This technique involves covering the internal opening of the fistula with a flap of tissue to promote healing.
- Effective for complex fistulas
- Preserves continence by protecting the sphincter muscles.
- More complex surgery with a longer recovery period.
LIFT (Ligation of the Intersphincteric Fistula Tract): This minimally invasive procedure involves closing the internal opening of the fistula and removing the infected tract.
- Minimal risk of incontinence.
- Quick recovery with less postoperative discomfort.
- Not suitable for all fistula types.
- Requires a skilled surgeon with specialized training.
Fibrin Glue or Plug: This involves sealing the fistula tract with a biocompatible glue or a specially designed plug to promote healing.
- Minimally invasive with no incisions.
- Outpatient procedure with minimal recovery time.
- Lower success rates compared to surgical options.
- May require multiple treatments.
ksharsutra treatment:
- Minimally invasive and relatively painless procedure.
- Low risk of incontinence and effective for complex or high fistulas.
- Requires multiple sessions and follow-up visits for thread tightening and replacement.
- Slow healing process as the tract gradually closes over time.
VAAFT treatment:
- Minimally invasive with minimal scarring, as the fistula is visualized and treated internally.
- Short recovery time and low risk of incontinence.
- High recurrence rates in complex cases.
- Requires specialized equipment and expertise, which may not be widely available.
IFTAK treatment:
- Minimally invasive with reduced risk of incontinence.
- Effective for complex fistulas involving the sphincter muscles.
- Limited availability due to the need for specialized surgical skill.
- May not be suitable for all fistula types or patients with specific anatomical considerations.

After Surgery Care

Postoperative care is essential for a smooth recovery and preventing recurrence:

Wound Care: Keep the area clean and dry, and follow instructions for dressing changes.
Pain Management: Take prescribed medications and use over-the-counter pain relievers as needed.
Dietary Adjustments:Incorporate high-fiber foods and stay hydrated to prevent constipation and reduce strain during bowel movements.
Hygiene: Maintain excellent personal hygiene, including regular baths or sitz baths, to prevent infection.
Avoid Straining: Avoid heavy lifting or prolonged sitting to reduce pressure on the surgical site.
Follow-Up Appointments: Attend scheduled visits with your surgeon to monitor healing progress.
Hair Removal: Regular hair removal in the area (if recommended by the doctor) can prevent future infections.

By adhering to these care instructions and working closely with Dr. Saurabh Patel, you can ensure a faster recovery and reduce the risk of complications from fistula surgery.

A fistula is an abnormal connection between two body parts, such as organs or blood vessels, which are not normally connected.

Fistulas can result from infections, injuries, inflammation, or complications from surgery. Diseases like Crohn's disease can also contribute to their development.

Symptoms may include pain, swelling, pus or blood discharge, and frequent infections in the affected area. The symptoms vary depending on the location of the fistula.

A fistula is usually diagnosed based on a physical examination and may require imaging tests like an MRI, CT scan, or fistulogram for a more detailed assessment.

Treatment options include antibiotics, draining of the fistula, and surgery to remove or repair the abnormal connection. Seton placement or fistulotomy may be recommended in complex cases.

In some cases, small or uncomplicated fistulas may heal with medical treatment, but most fistulas, especially complex or recurrent ones, require surgery.

Recovery time can vary depending on the type of surgery performed and the individual's healing process. It typically takes a few weeks, but in some cases, it may take longer.

Yes, fistulas can recur after surgery, especially if the underlying cause is not addressed. Proper aftercare and management are important to prevent recurrence.

Preventing a fistula largely depends on managing underlying conditions, such as infections or inflammatory bowel disease. Maintaining good hygiene and addressing early signs of infection may help reduce the risk.

While most fistulas are not life-threatening, they can lead to serious complications if left untreated, such as infections, abscesses, and organ damage. Timely treatment is essential.

Discover What Our Patient Have to Say

" I have personal experience with Dr. Saurabh Patel sir. I had fistula was operated for two times. But did not heal. Then I consulted Dr. saurabh patel sir. Sir was operated my fistula. Now i fully recovered . Actually, I'm from south Indian i have little bit language problem. But, sir understood my langauge and my pain. Sourabh sir his not only an Excellent Doctor , he is simple, superb Human being approachable,friendly approach with smiling face with his selfless services. Always amazing treatment. He is an extraordinary intelligent Doctor with human values.Nice adviser. May God bless him and best wishes for the future🙏🙏🙏 "

- Navi Poojary Fistula Patient

" Can you believe the pic I uploaded was taken just after 10 days of my surgery for fistula? No wonder he's the best surgeon in this field. I was diagnosed for fistula and took an advice from Dr. Saurabh Patel. My friend suggested him to me, I had been admitted in the hospital for 2 days and in those days he just made me feel like home. I'm recovering much better than I assumed. He did surgery on 29th November and after some days I was able to walk completely fine. I would suggest to take advice from him any day. "

- Aditya Parmar Fistula Patient

" After 15 days of my Fistula surgery,I wrote this review, Dr.Saurabh sir is highly qualified best experience in this field. And Yes best things Within 6 to 8days 90% recover my Fistula surgery. Full 15 days supported Like he is not only doctor he is also our friend. Thank You So much Sir Ji!!!"

- Vipul Shiyal Fistula Patient

" My experience was very wonderful. Dr. Saurabh Sir is very friendly and provides excellent care. I feel much better now than I did earlier. I'm delighted I chose these hospitals for my fissure issues because they always responded rapidly when I asked questions through the Wats app and call . Many thanks to Dr. Saurabh Sir for playing my favourite song in the Operation theatre which sped up the healing process. Huge gratitude to all. Highly suggested for the treatment of fissures, piles, and fistulas. "

- Hitesh Bhatia Fistula Patient

See more review on google