What is fistula-in-ano?
An anal fistula is a small tunnel that develops between the end of the bowel and the skin near the anus (where poo leaves the body). They’re usually the result of an infection near the anus causing a collection of pus (abscess) in the nearby tissue. When the pus drains away, it can leave a small channel behind.
What is the cause of fistula-in-ano?
An anal fistula most often happens from an anal gland that has developed a pus-filled infection (abscess). A fistula can also happen with certain conditions, such as Crohn’s disease. Or it may happen after radiation therapy for cancer. Injury to the anal canal and surgery can also cause anal fistulas.
How is ano fistula treated?
The main options are outlined here.
- Fistulotomy. The most common type of surgery for anal fistulas is a fistulotomy.
- Seton techniques.
- Advancement flap procedure.
- LIFT procedure.
- Endoscopic ablation.
- Laser surgery.
- Fibrin glue.
- Bioprosthetic plug.
Is fistula a serious problem?
How serious is a fistula? Fistulas can cause a lot of discomfort, and if left untreated, may cause serious complications. Some fistulas can cause a bacteria infection, which may result in sepsis, a dangerous condition that can lead to low blood pressure, organ damage or even death.
Is fistula and piles same?
Piles are mainly the swollen blood vessels while fissures are kind of cracks and fistulas are an opening of a cavity. Piles are mostly painless and unnoticeable. Fissures cause a lot of pain. In the case of fistulas, pus is discharged out of the anal area.
Can I live with fistula?
Although fistulas are associated with IBD, they can occur several years before the condition is diagnosed. While rarely life-threatening, fistulas can decrease people’s quality of life and often need combined medical and surgical treatment.
Is fistula in ano curable?
Once you have an anal fistula, antibiotics alone will not cure it. You will need to have surgery to cure the fistula. Surgical treatment options include: Fistulotomy.