Fistula in Ano Surgery
A fistula in ano (anal fistula) is an abnormal tunnel that develops between the anal canal and the skin around the anus. It usually occurs after an infection or abscess in the anal glands that fails to heal completely. Anal fistulas cause persistent discharge, pain, and discomfort, and they rarely heal on their own. Surgery is the only effective treatment for permanent cure.
With modern medical advancements, Laparoscopic and Robotic Surgery are now considered the safest and most effective approaches for fistula treatment, offering less pain, faster recovery, and minimal recurrence compared to traditional open surgery.
Watch How Fistula in Ano Surgery is Performed – Step by Step
Symptoms of Fistula in Ano
Patients may experience:
- Constant or intermittent pus/blood discharge near the anus
- Pain and swelling around the anal area
- Recurrent abscess formation
- Itching, irritation, or foul-smelling discharge
- Difficulty sitting due to discomfort
- Fever or infection in severe cases
Diagnosis of Fistula in Ano
To confirm an anal fistula, doctors may recommend:
- Physical Examination – to identify external openings
- Digital Rectal Examination (DRE) – to assess internal connections
- MRI Fistulogram / Endoanal Ultrasound – to map the fistula tract and detect complexity
Treatment: Fistula in Ano Surgery
Since fistulas rarely heal with medicines, surgery is often required to remove the tract and prevent recurrence. Modern treatment approaches include Laser Fistula Surgery, VAFT (Video-Assisted Fistula Treatment), and Robotic Surgery.
Laser fistula surgery
- A minimally invasive approach where a fistuloscope (tiny camera) is inserted through the fistula opening.
- The entire tract is visualized and cleaned.
- The internal opening is closed, preventing recurrence.
Benefits:
- Minimally invasive – no large incisions
- Less pain compared to open surgery
- No damage to anal sphincter muscles (prevents incontinence)
- Faster healing and recovery
- Low recurrence rate
Benefits of Laser Surgery
- Higher accuracy
- Minimal blood loss
- Excellent success rates
- Minimal pain and discomfort
- Accepted by all mediclaim insurances
- Minimal recurrence rate
Recovery After Fistula Surgery
- Most patients can walk the same day or next day.
- Hospital stay is typically 1–2 days.
- Normal diet can be resumed in a few days.
- Return to work and routine activities within 1–2 weeks.
- Good hygiene, high-fiber diet, and adequate hydration are recommended to support healing.
Conclusion
Fistula in Ano Surgery using Laparoscopic (VAAFT) and Robotic techniques provides patients with a safe, effective, and minimally invasive solution for anal fistulas. These advanced methods ensure less pain, faster healing, smaller scars, and minimal recurrence, making them far superior to traditional open procedures.