An anal fistula is a small tunnel that develops from the end of the bowel and the skin near the anus (where poo leaves the body). Some small glands are under the control of anus region. Any changes to them produce an abscess or pus in the nearby tissues. Such abscesses are the most effective causes of fistula.
When the pus drains away, it can leave a small channel behind. As many as 50% of people with an abscess get a fistula. However, a fistula can also occur without an abscess.
Anal fistula outcomes in infection of the intestine. It can be painful causing discomfort through constant draining of mucus-like fluid.
Symptoms
- Seek immediate medical attention if you observe the following symptoms. Probably these are pointers to Fistula.
- Unmanageable pain affecting regular activities like sitting and walking around.
- Lack of Control over bowel movements which may even result in Bowel Incontinence.
- Itching and irritation in the skin surrounding the Anus region.
- Blood or Pus discharge along with motion.
- Swollen Anus and surrounding region.
- Reddish skin around the Anus.
- Foul discharge from the Anus.
What causes fistula?
There are many reasons that causes the fistula. Some among them being listed below;
- Surgery being done to drain the Anal Abscess.
- After effect of complicated operations performed near the Anus.
- Inflammation of Digestive System due to prolonged presence of Crohn’s disease.
- Diverticulitis
- Tuberculosis
You must know the causes and treatment of Piles
Types
There are various types of a fistula, and connected organs do their categorization. Below are some connections and few kinds of it are given:
- Enterotnteral Fistula: It is formed between any two parts of the Intestines.
- Colocutaneous Fistula: Also named as Enterocutaneous Fistula, is the attachment of the skin with small.
- Intestine or the skin and the colon
- Anal Fistula: It is developed as result of joining of the outer surface of the anus with the Perianal Skin.
There are several types of the vaginal fistula
- Colovaginal Fistula develops between the vagina and colon.
- Anovaginal Fistula or Rectovaginal Fistula occur in between the rectum and anus or vagina.
- Anorectal Fistula is the possible connection between the skin around the anal canal and the anal canal.
- Urinary Tract Fistula is the unique connection between any organ of the body and the Urinary Tract opening.
- Urethrovaginal Fistula it the issue occur in the urethra and vagina.
- Vesicovaginal Fistula develops between the bladder and vagina.
- Vesicouterine Fistula occurs between bladder and uterus.
Fistula Treatments
Once the Medical Practitioner completes his examinations and ascertains that you are suffering from Fistula. The examination may includes;
- Physical and rectal examination
- Proctoscopy, where a special telescope with a light on the end is used to look inside your anus
- An ultrasound scan, MRI scan or CT scan
Then he advises on the treatment options available to treat the same. Some treatment options offered to you for getting rid of Fistula are enlisted below for better understanding.
- Laser treatment: In this the recovery time very short since it is not the traditional one. It is a simple and easy process which causes no pain to the patients who undergo the same.
- Using a unique glue to fill the Fistula completely.
- Covering the Fistula with a piece of tissue available for the purpose.
- Plugging the Fistula with a special plug used medically.
- Seton procedure which uses medical thread referred to as Seton which is allowed to remain in the Fistula for many weeks and then further treatment is carried out.
- Cutting the Fistula to its fullest length making it into a flat surface so it heals quickly. This process is medically termed as Fistulotomy.
You must know the symptoms and treatment of Anal fissure.
Pre-Surgery and Post-Surgery Instructions
Pre-Surgery Instructions
- Do not eat anything before surgery.
- Take a shower and prevent infections.
- Wear easy and comfy garments.
- Do not use jewelry in the operation theatre.
- Take a help of family member for your care.
Post-Surgery Instructions
- Discuss post-surgical precautions with your practitioner.
- Perform walking as it reduces the risk of clot formation.
- Go through Sitz bathtub after the bowel movement.
- Do not use rough restroom tissues.
- Use supplements fast recovery.
Myths of Fistula
- It is a curse of God.
- It is caused due to baby boy developing inside the uterus.
- It is the result of mistakes done during delivery.
Fistulas can cause a lot of discomfort. It left untreated, may cause serious complications (1). Some fistulas can cause a bacteria infection, which may result in sepsis, a dangerous condition that can lead to low blood pressure, organ damage or even death.
