Anal Fistula
An anal fistula is an infected tunnel between the anal canal and the skin. Laser closure (FiLaC) provides a sphincter-saving permanent solution with fast recovery.
Overview
An anal fistula, or fistula-in-ano, is a small infected channel that forms between the end of the bowel (anal canal) and the skin near the anus. It typically begins as an anal abscess that drains, leaving behind a persistent tunnel. Fistulas rarely heal on their own and require surgical intervention.
Our FiLaC (Fistula-tract Laser Closure) procedure uses a radial laser fibre to destroy the fistula tract from within — preserving the sphincter muscles and eliminating the risk of incontinence. It's a 20-30 minute day-care procedure with minimal post-operative pain.
Causes
- Previous anal abscess (most common cause)
- Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis
- Tuberculosis
- Radiation therapy to the pelvic area
- Trauma or injury to the anal canal
- Sexually transmitted infections (rare)
Symptoms
- Persistent discharge of pus or blood from an opening near the anus
- Pain, swelling, and redness around the anus
- Recurrent anal abscesses
- Irritation and itching around the anal area
- Fever during acute infection episodes
Diagnosis
- Physical examination — identifying the external opening and palpating the tract
- Proctoscopy — visualises the internal opening
- MRI fistulogram — gold standard for mapping complex fistula tracts
- Endoanal ultrasound — assesses sphincter involvement
Treatment Options
FiLaC (Fistula-tract Laser Closure)
Radial laser fibre inserted into the tract destroys it from within. Sphincter-saving, day-care procedure.
VAAFT (Video-Assisted Anal Fistula Treatment)
A tiny camera inside the fistula tract guides precise laser ablation while preserving healthy tissue.
Fistulectomy
Complete surgical removal of the fistula tract. Used for simple, superficial fistulas.
Seton placement
A surgical thread passed through the tract to allow gradual drainage before definitive treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a fistula heal without surgery?
No. Once a fistula tract has formed, it will not heal spontaneously. Delaying treatment can lead to complex branching fistulas.
Does fistula surgery affect bowel control?
With laser techniques (FiLaC), the sphincter is preserved so incontinence risk is negligible. Traditional open fistulectomy carries a slightly higher risk.
How is FiLaC different from traditional surgery?
FiLaC works from inside the tract without cutting sphincter muscles. Traditional surgery cuts through muscle, risking varying degrees of incontinence.
Ready to Discuss Your Treatment?
Our anal fistula specialists in Kondapur are here to help. Most consultations available within 24 hours.