Anal Fistula Specialists in Karnataka

What is Anal Fistula?

An anal fistula is an abnormal tunnel that forms between the inside of the anal canal and the skin near the anus, most commonly developing as a complication of a previously drained perianal abscess. The tract allows persistent drainage of pus or fluid and rarely heals on its own without treatment, often causing recurrent infections if left unaddressed. It can be associated with underlying conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease, particularly Crohn's disease, which should be considered and evaluated, especially in cases of recurrent or complex fistulas.

Causes of Anal Fistula

Most commonly develops following an anal abscess, where the infection tracks through tissue and forms a chronic tunnel connecting an infected anal gland to the skin surface. Other causes include inflammatory bowel disease, particularly Crohn's disease, prior anal surgery, radiation therapy, and, less commonly, tuberculosis or other infections. Persistent bacterial contamination within the tract prevents natural closure of the fistula.

Symptoms of Anal Fistula

Persistent drainage of pus, blood, or fluid near the anus, recurring pain and swelling, irritation and itching of the skin around the anus, fever if infection recurs, a visible opening on the skin near the anus, pain that worsens with sitting, bowel movements, or coughing

Treatment & Types of Anal Fistula in Karnataka

Surgical treatment is generally required since fistulas rarely close on their own, with options including fistulotomy, where the tract is opened and allowed to heal, for simple, superficial fistulas. More complex fistulas involving significant sphincter muscle may require a seton placement to gradually and safely divide the tract, or advanced sphincter-sparing procedures to preserve continence while eliminating the fistula. Treatment of any underlying condition such as Crohn's disease is essential alongside local treatment.

Anal fistulas are classified by their path relative to the anal sphincter muscles — intersphincteric, transsphincteric, suprasphincteric, and extrasphincteric — with more complex, higher tracts carrying greater risk to continence if not carefully managed, which is why the exact classification guides the choice of surgical technique.

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