PERSISTENT ANORECTAL CONDITION
Anal Fistula
An abnormal tunnel that forms between the anal canal and the skin around the anus — usually following an anal abscess — causing persistent discharge, pain, swelling, and recurrent infection.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Anal Fistula
An anal fistula is an abnormal tunnel that connects the inside of the anal canal to the skin around the anus. It usually develops after an anal gland infection or abscess that has not healed completely. Fistulas are classified as simple (low) or complex (high or branching) depending on how they relate to the sphincter muscles. Common symptoms include continuous or intermittent discharge of pus, recurrent swelling, pain, and skin irritation around the anus. Anal fistulas do not heal on their own and require surgical treatment to drain the tract and prevent recurrence. Dr. Tejasree Vengala, a trusted female proctologist in Hyderabad, offers advanced fistula care — from minimally invasive FiLaC and VAAFT to traditional sphincter-saving procedures at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Previous anal abscess that did not heal completely
- Anal gland infections leading to tract formation
- Crohn's disease or other inflammatory bowel disease
- Tuberculosis or other chronic anorectal infections
- Trauma or previous anorectal surgery
- Sexually transmitted infections affecting the perianal area
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Simple (low) fistulas — straightforward surgery. Complex (high) fistulas — sphincter-saving techniques.
Fistulotomy, Seton, LIFT, VAAFT, FiLaC, Advancement Flap, Plug or Glue.
FiLaC offers sphincter-preserving, minimally invasive treatment with low recurrence.
Most patients resume light activity in 3–5 days; full healing in 4–6 weeks.
Confidential, compassionate care by Dr. Tejasree, a female proctologist.
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hitech City, Hyderabad.
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
FiLaC (Fistula-tract Laser Closure)
Dr. Tejasree Vengala uses advanced laser FiLaC technology to seal the fistula tract from within. The laser fibre delivers controlled energy that closes the tunnel without cutting muscle — preserving sphincter function, reducing pain, and offering a much faster recovery than conventional surgery.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Tejasree performs a clinical examination, and may recommend an MRI fistulogram to map the tract and identify its relationship with the sphincter muscles.
- 2
Treatment Planning
The fistula is classified as simple or complex, and the most appropriate treatment is chosen — laser FiLaC, LIFT, fistulotomy or seton placement.
- 3
Procedure
The chosen surgery is performed under short anaesthesia, usually completed within 30–60 minutes. Sphincter-preserving techniques are prioritised whenever possible.
- 4
Recovery & Follow-up
Most patients are discharged within 24 hours. Regular dressings, sitz baths, and follow-up visits ensure complete healing and prevent recurrence.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Fistulotomy
The fistula tract is opened up and allowed to heal from inside out — the standard treatment for simple, low fistulas.
Seton Placement
A soft thread is placed through the tract to drain infection and slowly cut through tissue while preserving sphincter function.
LIFT Procedure
Ligation of the Intersphincteric Fistula Tract — a sphincter-saving technique especially useful for trans-sphincteric fistulas.
Fistulectomy
Complete surgical excision of the fistula tract — used when the entire tract needs to be removed for cure.
Endorectal / Endoanal Advancement Flap
A flap of healthy tissue is used to cover the internal opening of the fistula — preferred for high, complex fistulas.
VAAFT
Video-Assisted Anal Fistula Treatment uses a small endoscope to visualise and close the tract with minimal tissue damage.
FiLaC
Fistula-tract Laser Closure seals the tract from within using laser energy — sphincter-preserving with very low complication rate.
Fistula Plug / Fibrin Glue
Biological materials are used to close the tract — suitable for select simple fistulas, especially in patients wanting to avoid muscle cuts.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
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