VAAFT
Video-Assisted Anal Fistula Treatment — a tiny endoscope visualises the fistula tract from inside, the internal opening is closed and the tract sealed, all without external cuts.
What is VAAFT?
VAAFT (Video-Assisted Anal Fistula Treatment) is a modern, minimally invasive endoscopic technique for anal fistulas. A tiny endoscope (fistuloscope) is inserted through the external opening to directly visualise the fistula tract, identify the internal opening accurately, locate any branching tracts, and treat the tract from inside under direct vision. The internal opening is then closed and the tract is destroyed using electrocautery or laser energy. There are no large external cuts, sphincter is fully preserved, and recovery is comfortable. As a female proctologist in Hyderabad, Dr. Tejasree Vengala performs VAAFT at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
How the Procedure Works
Anaesthesia & Positioning
Surgery is performed under spinal or general anaesthesia. The patient is positioned in lithotomy position.
Fistuloscope Insertion
A tiny endoscope is inserted through the external opening of the fistula, allowing direct visualisation of the tract from inside.
Tract Mapping
The entire course of the fistula, including any side branches and the internal opening, is precisely identified under direct vision.
Tract Destruction
The fistula tract lining is destroyed using electrocautery or laser energy delivered under direct endoscopic vision.
Internal Opening Closure
The internal opening is securely closed using sutures or staples, completing the procedure with no large external wounds.
Outcomes
Who Needs This Treatment?
- →
Direct visualisation of the entire fistula tract
- →
Complete sphincter preservation — full continence maintained
- →
Identifies branching tracts that other techniques may miss
- →
No large external cuts on the anal area
- →
Quick recovery with minimal post-operative pain
- →
Discreet, sensitive care by a female proctologist
VAAFT lets us see exactly what we are treating — every branch, every turn of the tract, the internal opening — in a way that is impossible with traditional probing alone. For complex or recurrent fistulas, that direct vision often makes the difference between cure and another disappointment.
— — Dr. Tejasree Vengala, Consultant Proctologist & Laparoscopic Surgeon, Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
VAAFT Cost in Hyderabad
The cost of VAAFT (Video-Assisted Anorectal Fistula Treatment) in Hyderabad depends on the complexity and location of the anal fistula, number of fistula tracts, previous treatments, investigations required, and the care needed before and after surgery.
For patients requiring VAAFT for suitable anal fistulas, the approximate cost ranges between ₹1,00,000 and ₹1,80,000.
| Procedure | Approximate Cost Range |
|---|---|
| VAAFT | ₹1,00,000 – ₹1,80,000 |
The final cost may vary depending on your individual condition, findings during evaluation, fistula complexity, and whether any additional procedures are required.
Factors That Influence VAAFT Cost
The overall cost may depend on:
- →
Type and complexity of fistula: The location, number of tracts, sphincter involvement, recurrence, and complexity of the fistula may influence treatment planning.
- →
Pre-operative evaluation: Required clinical examination, MRI or other imaging when needed, and medical assessments before surgery may affect the overall cost.
- →
Additional procedures: If procedures such as seton placement, abscess drainage, fistulotomy, or other proctology interventions are required along with VAAFT, the cost may vary.
- →
Hospital stay and post-operative care: The duration of admission, medicines, wound care, dietary guidance, and follow-up requirements may influence the final estimate.
Is VAAFT Covered by Insurance?
VAAFT may be covered by health insurance when it is performed for a medically necessary anal fistula. Coverage depends on your insurance policy, inclusions, and approval process.
Our insurance support team can assist you with checking your policy coverage, required documentation, cashless approval process, and insurance-related queries before the procedure.
- Checking your policy coverage
- Cashless approval process
- Required documentation
- Insurance-related queries before the procedure
Dr. Tejasree Vengala
Consultant Proctologist & Laparoscopic Surgeon
During consultation, Dr. Tejashree Vengala, General & Laparoscopic Surgeon in Hyderabad, will evaluate your symptoms, medical history, and examination findings to determine whether VAAFT is suitable for you. She will explain the procedure, expected outcomes, and guide you regarding the estimated cost based on your individual condition and treatment requirements.
07969084424 07969084424Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Not sure which treatment is right for you?
Book a consultation with Dr. Tejasree Vengala and get a personalised treatment plan.