This page will give you information about surgery for an anal fistula. If you have any questions, you should ask your GP or other relevant health professional.
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This page will give you information about surgery for an anal fistula. If you have any questions, you should ask your GP or other relevant health professional.
An anal fistula is an abnormal connection between the lining on the inside of your anal canal (back passage) and the skin near your anus.
Most anal fistulas are caused by an abscess (a collection of pus) that has developed in the anal canal. The pus can drain away onto your skin on its own or by an operation. An anal fistula happens when the track, made by the pus on the way to the surface of your skin, stays open.
You should no longer have any infection or pain.
Most anal fistulas do not heal without surgery.
The operation is usually performed under a general anaesthetic and usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.
To lessen the risk of bowel incontinence (when you pass a bowel movement without wanting to) your treatment may involve several operations over a number of months.
The type of anal fistula surgery you need will depend on where the fistula is (see figure 1).
General complications
Specific complications
You should be able to go home the same day or the day after.
Rest for a few days, walking as little as possible, to help your wound to heal. The wound often takes several weeks to heal completely and you may need to wear a pad until then.
Regular exercise should help you to return to normal activities as soon as possible. Before you start exercising, ask the healthcare team or your GP for advice.
For a small number of people, the anal fistula can come back.
An anal fistula can cause continued infection and pain. Symptoms usually get worse without anal fistula surgery.
If you would like to receive more information on Anal Fistula Surgery at New Victoria Hospital, please contact us on 020 8949 9020 or fill in our online form.
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