What is Fistula?

An anal fistula is an abnormal passageway that develops from inside your anus to the skin outside. It usually develops in the upper part of your anus (butthole), where your anal glands are. When these glands become infected, drainage from the infection can create a fistula. This infection is called a perianal abscess.

Symptoms

• Throbbing pain that worsens on sitting
• Swelling, tenderness, itching or redness around the anus
• Discharge of pus, blood and debris which is usually foul smelling
• Pain associated with bowel movements
• Fever

Causes

• Anorectal abcess - Almost all anal fistulas are a result of a preceding anorectal abcess. An anorectal abcess begins as an infection of one of the anal glands. The infection soon forms a pool of pus - abcess. An anal fistula results when the abcess fails to heal completely with/without treatment.
• Conditions that cause inflammation of the intestines like Crohn's disease, Diverticulitis.
• Malignancy in the anorectal region.
• Infections - Tuberculosis, HIV, sexually transmitted diseases
• Iatrogenic - As a complication of a previous surgery in the region.

Treatments

• Fistulectomy
• FiLaC ( Fistula-tract Laser Closure )
• Fistula Plug