Anal fistula is a painful condition that rarely heals without surgery. Dr. K. Praveen Reddy, a fistula surgeon with a fellowship in coloproctology (FISCP), diagnoses and treats fistula with care, privacy and clear explanation at Swastha Multispeciality Clinic in Vanasthalipuram.
What is an anal fistula?
An anal fistula is a small tunnel that forms between the anal canal and the skin near the anus, usually after an abscess. It keeps discharging pus or fluid and can cause pain, swelling and repeated abscesses. Fistulas rarely close on their own because the tunnel stays connected to the inside of the anal canal.
Symptoms of a fistula
- Repeated painful swelling or boil near the anus
- Constant or recurring discharge of pus, blood or fluid
- Pain that worsens when sitting or passing stool
- Skin irritation and itching around the anus
- Fever with a painful swelling (an abscess needs prompt treatment)
How a fistula is diagnosed and treated
The surgeon examines you in privacy and may advise an MRI scan to map the tunnel, because treatment depends on how the fistula runs in relation to the muscles. Surgery is done under anaesthesia, with the aim of clearing the infection while protecting bowel control.
- Examination and MRI to map the fistula
- Fistulotomy, seton placement or other sphincter-saving techniques as suited
- Drainage of any associated abscess
- Careful wound care and follow-up
Recovery and aftercare
Most patients go home the same day or the next day. Healing takes some weeks with regular wound dressing, sitz baths (sitting in warm water), a high-fibre diet and plenty of fluids. Your surgeon will explain what to expect for your type of fistula.
Frequently asked questions
Can a fistula heal without surgery?
Rarely. Medicines may calm infection, but most fistulas need surgery to heal fully.
Will surgery affect bowel control?
The surgeon chooses a technique that protects the sphincter muscles; the risk depends on how deep the fistula is.
Is it the same as piles?
No. Piles are swollen veins, while a fistula is an infected tunnel. A proper examination tells them apart.
Book a consultation at Swastha Multispeciality Clinic
Consult Dr. K. Praveen Reddy, laparoscopic surgeon in Vanasthalipuram, at Vaidehi Nagar, Vanasthalipuram, Hyderabad 500070. Open Monday to Saturday 9 AM to 9 PM and Sunday 9 AM to 1 PM. Call or WhatsApp 83417 94993. Walk-ins are welcome. This page is general information and not a substitute for medical advice.
Related services: Piles, fissure and fistula · Keyhole surgery · Sebaceous cyst, lipoma and swellings