Understanding Fistulotomy
Fistulotomy is a surgical procedure used to treat an anal fistula, a small tunnel that forms between the end of the bowel and the skin near the anus. If left untreated, anal fistulas can cause discomfort, recurrent infections, and complications.
Types of Anal Fistulas
- Simple Fistula: Involves minimal muscle involvement and is relatively straightforward to treat.
- Complex Fistula: Involves a larger portion of the anal sphincter muscle or multiple tracts, requiring a tailored approach for successful treatment.
The primary goal of a fistulotomy is to open the fistula tract to allow it to heal while preserving anal sphincter function to avoid complications like incontinence.
When Is Fistulotomy Recommended?
Fistulotomy is commonly recommended for patients experiencing:
- Persistent or recurrent anal abscesses.
- Discomfort, pain, or drainage from the fistula opening.
- Failure of non-surgical treatments to resolve the fistula.
- Complex fistulas requiring surgical intervention.
How Bangalore Gastro Centre Can Help
Comprehensive Evaluation and Diagnosis
Our experts perform a thorough evaluation using advanced diagnostic tools such as:
- Digital Rectal Examination (DRE): To assess the fistula’s location and severity.
- Endoanal Ultrasound or MRI Fistulography: To identify complex tracts or sphincter involvement.
Personalized Surgical Plans
Every fistula is unique. Our surgeons design customized surgical plans tailored to the specific type and complexity of the fistula to ensure optimal results and minimize risks.
State-of-the-Art Procedure
Our fistulotomy procedures are performed with precision using advanced techniques. The process involves:
- Identifying the fistula tract through preoperative imaging and examination.
- Incising and opening the tract to allow for effective drainage and healing.
- Preserving anal sphincter function by employing meticulous surgical methods.
Post-Procedure Care and Recovery
- Follow-Up Care: We provide regular follow-ups to monitor healing and prevent recurrence.
- Recovery Time: Most patients can resume normal activities within 1-2 weeks, with complete healing typically achieved in a few months.
- Patient Support: Our team offers ongoing guidance for wound care, pain management, and dietary modifications to aid recovery.
Potential Complications and How We Mitigate Them
While fistulotomy is generally safe, potential risks include:
- Temporary or mild incontinence.
- Infection or recurrence of the fistula.
Our experienced surgeons take every precaution to minimize these risks, ensuring the best possible outcome for each patient.
Meet Our Expert Team
At Bangalore Gastro Centre, our surgeons and specialists have extensive experience in performing fistulotomy procedures. We are committed to providing compassionate, patient-centred care tailored to your needs.
Contact Information
For appointments and inquiries, please contact us:
Tel: 080-4688-8888
Email: [email protected]
Visit our website www.bangaloregastrocentre.com for more information and to schedule a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the success rate of fistulotomy?
A1: Fistulotomy has a high success rate, especially for simple fistulas, with over 90% of patients achieving complete healing.
Q2: Will I experience pain during or after the procedure?
A2: Fistulotomy is performed under anaesthesia to ensure a pain-free experience. Postoperative discomfort is manageable with prescribed medications.
Q3: How do I know if I have an anal fistula?
A3: Common symptoms include pain, swelling, drainage of pus or blood, and recurrent infections near the anus. A consultation with our specialists can confirm the diagnosis.
Q4: Can a fistula come back after surgery?
A4: Recurrence is rare with proper surgical technique and follow-up care. Our team ensures comprehensive treatment to minimize this risk.
