Living with an untreated anal fistula can be incredibly challenging and uncomfortable, necessitating prompt medical attention for effective management. Regrettably, some patients choose to postpone seeking treatment for fistula near me, often holding the misconception that the issue will resolve itself. However, neglecting the necessary medical care can result in severe complications and a poorer overall prognosis. Therefore, it is crucial to address anal fistulas promptly to prevent further health deterioration.
What is anal fistula?
Anal fistula, a condition characterized by an abnormal tract between the anal canal and the skin, typically arises from an infection in the anal gland within the anal canal that subsequently spreads to the outer skin, culminating in the formation of an anal fistula.
What are the different treatment options for Piles?
Various treatment options for anal fistulas are
• Fistulotomy.
• LIFT procedure (ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract)
• VAAFT procedure ( video assisted anal fistula treatment)
• Fistula plug.
• Laser fistula treatment.
• Seton placement and surgery.
• Kshar sutra.
Complications of untreated anal fistulas:
If left untreated, anal fistulas can lead to a multitude of complications, including escalating pain and discomfort. The persistence of pain can significantly impact daily activities, making basic tasks such as sitting and walking increasingly arduous. Recurrent infections are also a common consequence of untreated anal fistulas, characterized by swelling, redness, and tenderness of the skin surrounding the anus, causing further discomfort and pain.
Additionally, the untreated condition may progress to abscess formation, characterized by the collection of pus. This can result in perianal abscesses, which are excruciatingly painful and may necessitate immediate drainage to prevent the spread of infection to nearby tissues. Furthermore, untreated fistulas can lead to systemic infections, potentially resulting in sepsis, a serious and life-threatening condition requiring hospitalization.
The complexity of untreated fistulas may lead to the development of multiple tracts and openings, making the condition more challenging to treat. Chronic inflammation and scarring in the anal tissues can contribute to anal stenosis, a complication characterized by the narrowing of the anal passage, which can make bowel movements increasingly difficult. In some cases, untreated fistulas can damage the anal sphincters, leading to anal incontinence, a distressing condition involving involuntary leakage of gases and stool.
Although the risk of carcinoma in anal fistulas is low (0.1%), chronic inflammation can predispose individuals to this rare complication. Therefore, seeking early medical intervention is paramount in preventing unnecessary suffering and potential complications. Dr. Vinay and Dr. Anupam, esteemed Piles Specialist Doctors in fistula management, have successfully treated numerous cases of anal fistula using the Kshar Sutra technique, a non-surgical approach with a high success rate and minimal complications. They excel in performing top-notch fistula surgery in Chandigarh and are also proficient in providing Fistula Treatment Without Surgery.
