Condition · Specialist
Laser Fistula (Fistula-in-Ano) Treatment in Mumbai
Sphincter-saving laser fistula surgery by India's leading fistula authority.
What is Anal Fistula?
An anal fistula is an abnormal tract or tunnel between the anal canal and the skin around the anus.
Anal fistulae originate from the anal glands located between the internal and external anal sphincters. If the outlet of these glands becomes blocked, the gland gets infected and forms an abscess, which can eventually extend to the skin surface. The tract formed by this process is called fistula in ano.
Fistulae are known to occur in people with a past history of anal abscesses, and can form when anal abscesses do not heal properly. Abscesses can recur if the fistula seals from outside, allowing pus to accumulate and extend to the surface again — repeating the process.
Symptoms to watch for
- Persistent pus discharge
- Recurrent abscess
- Pain near anus
- Swelling and redness
- Skin irritation
- Bleeding from fistula opening
Types & Stages
- Intersphincteric
Most common, easiest to treat.
- Transsphincteric
Crosses both anal sphincters.
- Suprasphincteric
Complex, above sphincter complex.
- Extrasphincteric
Rare, requires advanced surgical planning.
Common causes
- Previous anal abscess
- Crohn's disease
- Tuberculosis
- Trauma or surgery
- Infections
Treatment at DLPC
An anal fistula requires a prompt visit to a proctologist for examination and evaluation.
Conventional surgery
Fistulotomy / fistulectomy may lead to recurrence and anal incontinence in a subset of patients.
DLPC Recommended
FiLaC — Fistula-tract Laser Closure
We perform FiLaC, a sphincter-saving technique, in most patients depending on the complexity of the fistula. It reduces the risk of recurrence; the wound is smaller, pain is less and recovery is shorter, with fewer follow-up visits. Being sphincter-saving, it is also indicated in patients with high fistulas or weak sphincters.
Why treat early — Implications
- Long-standing intermittent faecal/blood/pus discharge, soiling undergarments
- Repeated mild-to-moderate fever due to recurrent infections
- Pain and general discomfort
- Development of multiple & complex fistulas if not treated early
- Recurrent perianal abscesses
Recovery Timeline
- STEP 1
Day 0 — Day care procedure
- STEP 2
Week 1 — Back to office
- STEP 3
Week 4 — Healing complete
- STEP 4
Month 3 — Final review
Cost & Insurance
At DLPC we strive to keep surgery affordable. The cost depends on the complexity of the surgery and the hospital chosen. We accept all health insurance & Mediclaim and assist patients with the cashless / reimbursement process. Contact us to know more.
All types of insurance accepted at DLPC centres via Saifee, Nanavati, Apollo and Surya Hospitals empanelment.
Frequently asked questions
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25,000+ patients · 25+ years · Saifee · Nanavati · Apollo