Perianal Fistula Surgery

Perianal fistula is the formation of an abnormal channel around the anus. It usually occurs during the healing process of anal abscesses. It can cause recurrent discharge, pain and discomfort due to infection. Since it is a chronic condition, perianal fistula surgery is often inevitable.

In Which Cases Is Perianal Fistula Surgery Performed?

Perianal fistula is a chronic disease that occurs around the anus, creating an abnormal channel between the intestine and the skin. It usually occurs as a result of anal abscesses and can lead to the discharge of infected secretions, pus or feces.

This condition can cause pain, irritation and recurrent infections in the patient. It does not heal on its own, so surgical intervention may be required in many cases.

A fistula constantly produces pus or a foul-smelling discharge, which increases infection and reduces the person's quality of life.

If severe pain and swelling are felt in the fistula area, surgery may be required. In some patients, the pain becomes more pronounced when sitting or going to the toilet.

Fistula can cause anal abscess formation. If the patient has frequent abscess problems, surgical intervention becomes inevitable. Perianal fistula caused by chronic bowel diseases requires surgery.

Fistulas that negatively affect a person's daily life or restrict their social life should be treated with surgery. Fistulas that cause hygiene problems may also require surgery.

Perianal fistula surgery, can be done with different methods depending on the structure of the fistula and the general health status of the patient. Early diagnosis and correct surgical intervention accelerate the healing process and help the patient live a healthy life.

How is Perianal Fistula Surgery Performed?

Perianal fistula surgery, is performed to clean and close the abnormal channel formed around the anus. Different surgical techniques can be applied depending on the location of the fistula, its depth and the muscle tissue it passes through.

Fistulotomy is one of the most commonly used methods. The fistula canal is completely opened and cleaned, and the inside is left to heal. It is an effective method for superficial fistulas and has a high success rate.

If the fistula is connected to the anal sphincter muscles, a string called a seton is placed to prevent damage to these muscles. The seton string is tightened over time, allowing the fistula to heal in a controlled manner.

The LIFT method is a method developed to treat fistulas, especially by protecting the anal sphincter muscles. The spread of infection is prevented by tying and removing the fistula channel.

In some cases, the fistula can be closed with special biological adhesives or plugs. This method is preferred as a minimally invasive option to preserve the muscles.

In some cases, advanced surgery may be performed. These surgeries are more complex and may sometimes involve techniques such as tissue transplantation or flap surgery.

The recovery period after surgery depends on the method used and the patient's general health. Paying attention to hygiene rules and following the doctor's recommendations will speed up the recovery process and reduce the risk of recurrence.

What is the Post-Perianal Fistula Surgery Process?

Perianal fistula surgery The recovery process after surgery varies depending on the technique used and the patient's general health status. There are important points to consider after surgery.

There may be mild to moderate pain for the first few days. Painkillers prescribed by your doctor should be used regularly. Also, warm water sitz baths (2-3 times a day for 10-15 minutes) help relieve pain and keep the area clean.

Attention should be paid to wound care after surgery. There may be a slight discharge in the wound area in the first days. Regular dressing should be done and the area should be kept clean. Cleaning with warm water instead of hard toilet paper reduces the risk of infection.

Since constipation can make the healing process more difficult, fiber-rich foods should be consumed and plenty of water should be drunk. If necessary, medications that soften stool (laxatives) can be used with a doctor's recommendation.

Heavy lifting, sitting for long periods of time, and excessive physical exertion should be avoided for the first few weeks. Light walks can be taken while paying attention to hygiene until the wound heals.

It is important to go to the doctor for check-ups on the specified dates after the surgery. Wound healing and signs of infection should be monitored regularly.

Perianal fistula surgery The recovery period usually varies between 4-8 weeks. If the doctor's recommendations are followed, patients can return to their daily lives in a healthy way.