You might be dealing with an unusual passage (fistula-in-ano) if you have continual discomfort, puffiness, or an unexpected flow from your rectum. An anal fistula is something that almost never heals without assistance from a doctor and nearly always originates with an abscess; most people require specialist surgical intervention to definitively fix the condition while conserving bowel control. Dr. Ashish Vashistha is a namesake for laparoscopic and robotic procedures in South Delhi, India.
An anal fistula is a type of abnormal connection (or tunnel) that exists between the skin close to the anus and the anal canal. These are commonly caused by an infection of an abscess in the anal area (usually) that has drained, leaving behind a tract or pathway. Symptoms of anal fistulas generally include discomfort (pain), swelling, drainage (around the rectum), bleeding from the rectum, and recurring infections. If not addressed medically, anal fistulas will result in persistent discomfort, irritation of the skin and ongoing infection.
Dr. Ashish Vashistha is a trailblazer in Minimal Access and Bariatric Surgery, with over 28 years of experience. His credentials include:
No. Anal fistulas do not heal without treatment. Surgery is generally required to remove the infected tract and prevent recurrence.
Mild-to-moderate discomfort is normal after surgery and can be managed with pain-relief medicines. Minimally invasive techniques usually reduce postoperative pain.
Severe pain, Fever, Excessive bleeding, Heavy discharge, Increasing swelling
Most fistulas form after an anal abscess. When the abscess drains, a small tract may remain. Other causes include infections, trauma, Crohn’s disease, prior surgeries, or blocked anal glands.
Most procedures are performed under spinal or general anesthesia, depending on complexity and patient comfort.