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Fistula Surgery (Fistulotomy) in
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What is Fistula Treatment (Fistulotomy)

What is Fistula Treatment (Fistulotomy)

Fistulotomy is a surgical procedure employed to treat anal fistulas, a common condition causing discomfort. Complications such as abscess formation, recurrent infections, and fistula recurrence necessitate this intervention for resolution. If you're considering a fistulotomy, reach out to us, or book a direct appointment with our general surgeon. At the CK Birla Hospital, we are dedicated to ensuring that your fistulotomy is as safe, comfortable, and effective as possible. We're here to guide you every step of the way toward a successful recovery.

Fistula: Cause, Types, Prevention and Treatment

Fistula: Cause, Types, Prevention and Treatment

What are the Causes of Fistula?

Fistulas can occur for various reasons, depending on their type and location. Here are some common causes:

  • Obstetric Complications: Prolonged labour in childbirth, particularly in areas with limited medical resources, can lead to tissue damage.
  • Surgical Issues: Poor surgical technique, infections, or inadequate blood supply during procedures involving the colon, rectum, or urinary system may cause fistulas.
  • Inflammatory Conditions: Diseases like Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis elevate the risk due to inflammation and ulceration in the digestive tract.
  • Infections: Conditions like tuberculosis or sexually transmitted infections can result in inflammation and tissue damage.
  • Trauma: Injuries such as pelvic fractures or wounds from accidents may lead to fistula formation.
  • Radiation Therapy: Damage from cancer treatment radiation can cause fistulas.
  • Foreign Bodies: Rarely, the presence of foreign objects within the body can contribute.

Prompt medical attention is crucial for appropriate management and prevention of complications.

What are the Risks if Fistulotomy is Not Done Timely and Properly?

If a fistulotomy is not done timely and properly, several risks and complications may arise, like:

  • Infection: This can lead to abscess formation and increased pain.
  • Recurrence: Improper treatment or incomplete removal may result in fistula recurrence.
  • Chronic Pain: Untreated fistulas can cause ongoing discomfort and irritation.
  • Anal Incontinence: Damage to anal sphincter muscles can lead to faecal incontinence.
  • Delayed Healing: Poor wound care or infection can prolong recovery.
  • Fistula Progression: Without intervention, fistulas may worsen over time.

Timely and proper treatment is essential to minimise these risks and complications. Patients should discuss options and post-operative care with healthcare providers.

What are the Types of Fistula?

Fistulas manifest in various bodily locations, categorised by their specific anatomical connections:

  • Anorectal Fistula: Links the anal canal or rectum to the skin near the anus, often due to conditions like anal abscesses or Crohn’s disease.
  • Enterocutaneous Fistula: Connects the intestine to the skin, typically arising from surgery, trauma, or diseases such as Crohn’s disease.
  • Vesicovaginal Fistula (VVF): Forms between the bladder and vagina, leading to urinary incontinence, often due to childbirth complications or pelvic surgery.
  • Rectovaginal Fistula (RVF): Connects the rectum to the vagina, causing stool leakage, commonly associated with childbirth injuries or inflammatory bowel disease.

Additionally, there are Gastrocutaneous, Tracheoesophageal, and Arteriovenous Fistulas, each presenting distinct challenges and treatment approaches.

What are the Types of Fistulotomy?

A fistulotomy, a surgical treatment for anal fistulas, encompasses various techniques, which are:

  • Simple Fistulotomy: Involves a single incision to open the fistula tract.
  • Seton Placement: Inserting a material like silk or rubber through the tract to gradually cut it or prevent premature closure.
  • Cutting Seton: Tightening the seton over time to gradually cut through the tissue.
  • Ligation of Intersphincteric Fistula Tract (LIFT): Ligating the internal opening to promote healing.
  • Advancement Flap Procedure: Mobilising nearby healthy tissue to cover the internal opening.

The choice depends on factors like location, complexity, and patient health. Consulting a healthcare professional is crucial for personalised treatment.

How can You Prevent Fistula?

Preventing fistulas depends on the underlying causes. Here are some general strategies to prevent fistulas:

  • Maintain Hygiene: Regular bathing and handwashing.
  • Avoid Trauma: Protect sensitive areas and avoid rough activities.
  • Manage Chronic Conditions: Proper treatment and lifestyle changes for diseases like Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis.
  • Healthy Diet: Consume balanced meals rich in nutrients.
  • Quit Smoking: Reduce risks of infections and poor healing.
  • Prompt Tnfection Treatment: Seek immediate medical attention.
  • Safe Childbirth Practices: Employ precautions during delivery.
  • Regular Check-ups: Monitor health status regularly.
  • Safe Sex: Practise protected intercourse.
  • Proper Wound Care: Attend wounds diligently.

These measures collectively mitigate the risk of developing fistulas.

Meet Our Proctologists In Delhi NCR

Meet Our Proctologists In Delhi NCR

What is the Diagnosis Before a Fistulotomy?

The diagnostic process for a fistulotomy may include:

Medical History

  • Assess symptoms like pain, discharge, swelling, and recurrent abscesses.
  • Inquire about previous anal abscesses or surgeries.

Physical Examination

  • Visual inspection for inflammation, tenderness, and fistula openings.
  • Digital rectal examination (DRE) to feel for abnormalities.

Imaging Studies

  • MRI or endoanal ultrasound for clearer visualisation.
  • Determines location, direction, and complexity of the fistula.

What are the Pre-treatment/surgery Instructions for a Fistulotomy?

Before undergoing a fistulotomy, it's crucial to follow these specific pre-treatment instructions:
  • Medical Evaluation: Your doctor will conduct a thorough assessment.
  • Medication Review: Inform your doctor about current medications.
  • Fasting: Typically, fasting is required before surgery.
  • Bowel Preparation: You may need to cleanse your colon.
  • Hygiene: Maintain good anal hygiene to prevent infection.
  • Smoking and Alcohol: Refrain from smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
  • Informed Consent: Understand the risks and benefits before signing consent.
  • Recovery Arrangements: Arrange for transportation and assistance post-surgery.
  • Follow-up Appointments: Schedule follow-up visits for monitoring and addressing concerns.
Following these instructions ensures the procedure's success and minimises complications.

What are the Post-surgery Instructions for a Fistulotomy?

Post-surgery instructions for a fistulotomy typically include:
  • Pain Management: Adhere to the recommended dosage for pain medication.
  • Wound Care: Make sure the surgery site is dry and clean.
  • Dressing Changes: Follow instructions for changing dressings.
  • Avoid Straining: Maintain a high-fibre diet to ease bowel movements.
  • Physical Activity: Engage in light exercise like walking.
  • Follow-up Appointments: Attend all scheduled appointments for monitoring.
  • Signs of Infection: Watch for symptoms like increased pain or swelling.
  • Medication Management: Finish any prescribed antibiotics.
  • Dietary Restrictions: Follow any dietary recommendations to aid healing.
  • Resuming Normal Activities: Ask your surgeon about when to resume daily activities.

How Do You Recover After a Fistulotomy?

Recovering from a fistulotomy involves several key steps, such as:
  • Pain Management: Use prescribed medications as directed.
  • Wound Care: Keep the area clean, and dry, and change dressings regularly. Consider sitz baths.
  • Dietary Changes: Opt for a fibre-rich diet and stay hydrated to prevent constipation.
  • Activity Level: Balance rest with light activity like walking, and avoiding heavy lifting.
  • Follow-up Appointments: Attend all scheduled visits for monitoring and guidance.
  • Avoid Strain during Bowel Movements: Use stool softeners if needed.
  • Avoid Smoking: Refrain from smoking to aid healing.
  • Monitor for Complications: Look out for signs of infection and contact your doctor if concerned.
Patience is crucial; healing may take several weeks. Follow your doctor's instructions diligently.

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FAQs around Fistulotomy

FAQs around Fistulotomy

What is a Fistulotomy?

A fistulotomy is a surgical procedure used to treat anal fistulas by cutting open the fistula tract to allow it to heal from the inside out, promoting drainage and closure.

How is a Fistulotomy Performed?

During a fistulotomy, a surgeon makes an incision along the fistula tract, removes infected tissue, and opens the tract to allow it to heal naturally, promoting drainage and closure.

What Conditions or Diseases Might Necessitate a Fistulotomy?

Conditions or diseases that might necessitate a fistulotomy include anal fistulas, which can develop due to infections, inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn’s disease), or trauma to the anal region.

How Long Does It Take to Recover From a Fistulotomy?

Recovery from a fistulotomy typically takes a few weeks. Patients may experience discomfort, swelling, and drainage initially, but symptoms usually improve gradually as the surgical site heals.



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