Fistula – Causes, Symptoms & Advanced Treatment Options in Thane
A fistula is an abnormal connection between two body parts, such as the rectum and skin (anal fistula), or other internal organs. Fistulas often result from infection, surgery, or inflammatory conditions and can significantly affect quality of life. Early treatment prevents recurrent infection, abscess formation, and complications.
🔍 What Is a Fistula?
Fistulas are abnormal tunnels that connect:
- Two internal organs
- An organ and the skin surface
Most commonly, people suffer from anal fistulas, but fistulas can also form in the:
- Bladder (urinary fistula)
- Vagina (obstetric fistula)
- Intestine
⚠️ Common Causes of Fistula
1️⃣ Infection & Abscess
- Infected glands near the anus can form tunnels
- Untreated abscesses are a common cause
2️⃣ Surgery Complications
- Poor healing after bowel, bladder, or gynecological surgery
3️⃣ Chronic Inflammatory Conditions
- Crohn’s disease
- Ulcerative colitis
4️⃣ Trauma
- Injury to internal organs or perineum
5️⃣ Obstetric Causes (in females)
- Prolonged labor or childbirth trauma
🩺 Symptoms of Fistula
- Persistent pus or fluid discharge
- Painful swelling near affected area
- Redness or irritation of skin
- Fever if infection occurs
- Pain during bowel movements (for anal fistula)
- Recurrent abscess formation
Fistulas rarely heal on their own and require surgical intervention.
🧪 Diagnosis of Fistula
- Physical Examination – local inspection and digital examination
- Ultrasound / Endoanal Ultrasound – visualizes internal tracts
- MRI Fistulogram – detailed mapping of complex fistulas
- CT Scan – evaluates surrounding organs in complicated cases
- Colonoscopy – if inflammatory bowel disease is suspected
💊 Treatment Options for Fistula
1️⃣ Medications
- Antibiotics for infection
- Pain management
- Anti-inflammatory drugs for underlying Crohn’s disease
2️⃣ Procedures & Surgery
- Fistulotomy – cutting open the tract for drainage and healing
- Seton Placement – keeps tract open to drain infection before definitive surgery
- LIFT Procedure (Ligation of Intersphincteric Fistula Tract) – preserves anal sphincter
- Fibrin Glue / Plug – minimally invasive for selected cases
- Surgery for complex or recurrent fistulas
3️⃣ Post-Surgery Care
- Sitz baths for hygiene and comfort
- Stool softeners to prevent strain
- Antibiotics as prescribed
- Regular follow-up to check for recurrence
⚠️ When to Seek Immediate Medical Care
- Severe pain, swelling, or fever
- Persistent bleeding or pus discharge
- Recurrence after previous surgery
- Inability to control bowel movements (rare but serious)
Prompt treatment prevents chronic infection and complications.
👨⚕️ Why Consult Dr. Ankur Bhanushali?
- Expert in anal and intestinal fistula treatment
- Advanced laparoscopic and sphincter-preserving surgery
- Accurate imaging and diagnosis for complex fistulas
- Emergency care for abscess and infection
- Personalized care to minimize recurrence and preserve function
🏥 FULL CLINIC & HOSPITAL DETAILS
Dr. Ankur Surgical Clinic
Shop No 4, Laxmi Krupa, Edulji Road, Charai, Thane West – 400602
📞 +91 86910 33066
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Aayush Multispecialty Hospital
👨⚕️ Dr. Ankur Bhanushali – General & Laparoscopic Surgeon
1st Floor, Marigold Apartment, Almeda Road, Panch Pakhdi, Thane West – 400602
🌐 https://drankurbhanushali.com
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📞 +91 86910 33033
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