Anorectal conditions

Overview

Anorectal conditions are those that affect the anus or rectum. The overgrowth or abnormal growth of tissues in the anus and rectum region is the main cause of these diseases. While talking about these concerns might be humiliating, living with them can be painful/ excruciating. The following are some of the most prevalent anorectal issues:

• Anal Fistula
• Piles
• Fissures
• Prolapse

What is Anal Fistula?

An anal fistula, also known as a fistula-in-ano, is a tiny channel that forms between the rectum/anal canal's end and the skin near the anus. When passing stools, it might cause bleeding and pain. Typically, a fistula develops post surgery to drain a perianal abscess.

What are the causes of Anal Fistula?

Injury to the skin near the anal opening, usually caused by a hard, dry bowel movement, is the most common cause of an anal fissure. Digital insertion (during an examination), foreign body insertion, or anal intercourse is some of the other causes. During childbirth, pregnant women may develop a fissure.

What are the treatment options for Fistula?

An anal fistula is treated with surgery by a specialist who assesses the depth and extent of the fistula tract. The following forms of surgery are frequently employed in the treatment of this condition:

• MAFT (Minimally Invasive Fistula Treatment) is a minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure for treating fistulas. The point of internal opening of the fistula is determined by examining the fistula tract using an endoscope. The internal entrance of the fistula is then closed with a stapler, and the whole fistula tract is removed with electrocautery under direct telescopic vision.

Advantages/Benefits of MAFT include:

• There are no surgical wounds in the buttocks or perianal region.
• The anal sphincters are unharmed.
• There are less pre-operative investigations to determine the type of fistula.
• Return to work and normal routine early.
• It is possible to do this surgery as a Day-Care procedure.
• The chances of locating the internal fistula opening (which is crucial in all fistula surgical therapies) are substantially better.
• The fistulous tract can be entirely eliminated from inside, with no other tissues being harmed.

Fistulotomy/Fistulectomy: Most fistulas are treated with a fistulotomy, which involves cutting the skin and muscle around the tunnel open, transforming it into an open groove. The fistula tract can then heal from the inside out.