Anal fistula

Specialties / PROCTOLOGY / Anal fistula

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Anal fistula

An anal fistula is an abnormal tunnel-like tract that forms between the inside of the anus or rectum and the skin around the anus. It typically occurs as a result of an infection or abscess near the anus that doesn't heal properly.

How does Anal fistula form?

An anal fistula is a small tunnel that develops between the end of the bowel and the skin near the opening of the bottom (anus). It's usually caused by an infection near the anus, which results in a collection of pus (abscess) in the nearby tissue. When the pus drains away, it can leave a small channel behind.

How To Prevent Anal fistual ?

- Consuming a fibre-rich diet.
- Maintain dryness in the anal region.
- Avoid straining while stool passing.
- Regular exercises.

Causes

  • Trauma to the anal tissues
  • Infection in the anal gland
  • Radiation from cancer treatment
  • Crohn's disease
  • Sexually transmitted disease
  • Tuberculosis
  • Diverticulitis
  • Cancer

Symptoms

  • symptomes Pain and swelling around the anus
  • Frequent anal abscesses
  • Foul-smelling bloody drainage from anal opening
  • Bleeding along with stool
  • Pain during bowel movements
  • Fever, chills and fatigue

Diagnosis

Keeping hydrated - One of the best home remedies for anal fistula is to drink plenty of water. Consuming huge amounts of water and fruit juice is good substitute for carbonated beverages and alcohol. Having ginger tea, turmeric milk, cabbage juice, orange juice or extracts from gooseberries can help bowel clearance.

Urinalysis and blood test – These tests check for signs of infections. Fistulogram X-ray – Helps locate fistulas and determine how many there are and the size. Computerized tomography (CT) urogram - An imaging exam to check out the urinary system. Pelvic MRI – Helps your physician see inside your rectum and vagina.

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Doctors

Treatment

Laser closure of the perianal fistula is the minimally invasive and low complication rate procedure which is a life-saving way for complex fistulas, preserving anal sphincter injury. Unfortunately, wide range success rate reported before (30-80%), the investigators are searching to reach better rates.