Anal Fistula Treatment in Pune
Anal fistula is a painful and often recurrent condition that affects the area around the anus, causing discomfort, swelling, and infection. If you are looking for expert care for anal fistula treatment in Pune, Dr. Rupali Bandgar-Jankar offers advanced and effective solutions tailored to your needs. At Kaizen Gastro Care, we pride ourselves on providing advanced and comprehensive anal fistula treatment in Pune. With a dedicated team of specialists, including Dr. Rupali Bandgar-Jankar, an experienced gastrophysiologist in Pune, and Dr. Samrat Jankar, a renowned fistula specialist in Pune, we ensure personalized care and effective solutions for every patient.
Dr. Rupali Bandgar-Jankar is a renowned GI Motility Specialist in Pune, India, with extensive expertise in a pivotal role in diagnosing and managing complex gastrointestinal disorders, including anal fistulas. With over 8 years of experience and specialized training in advanced GI physiology studies, she is committed to providing personalized and compassionate care for her patients.
Take the first step toward recovery by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Rupali Bandgar-Jankar. With her expertise and compassionate care, you can overcome the challenges of an anal fistula and enjoy a healthier, pain-free life.
What Is an Anal Fistula?
An anal fistula is an abnormal tunnel-like connection between the inside of the anal canal and the skin surrounding the anus. It often develops as a result of an infection or abscess in the anal glands, which, when left untreated, can lead to the formation of a fistula. While some fistulas may arise as small openings near the anus, they can cause significant discomfort, pain, and recurring infections.
Types of Anal Fistula:
Anal fistulas are classified into various types, such as:
- Intersphincteric Fistula: A tract that runs between the internal and external sphincter muscles.
- Transsphincteric Fistula: A tract that crosses the external sphincter and opens near the anus.
- Suprasphincteric Fistula: A tract that runs above the sphincter muscles.
- Extrasphincteric Fistula: A tract that develops in the rectum and extends to the perianal skin.
Causes of Anal Fistula
Anal fistulas usually result from:
- Infected Anal Glands (Abscesses): Most anal fistulas start as an infected gland or an abscess in the anal area that doesn’t cure properly.
- Chronic Conditions: Diseases like Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or other inflammatory bowel diseases can lead to fistula formation.
- Trauma or Injury: Damage to the anal or rectal area from surgery, childbirth, or physical injury can contribute to fistulas.
- Radiation Therapy: Prior treatment for cancer in the pelvic area may lead to complications like fistulas.
- Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Certain infections may result in abscesses or fistula formation.
- Cancer or Tumors: Rarely, tumors in the anal or rectal area can result in a fistula.
It is important to identify and treat the underlying cause to prevent complications. If you suspect an anal fistula, consult a fistula specialist for proper diagnosis and management.
Symptoms of an anal fistula
Common symptoms of anal fistulas include:
- Pain and Discomfort: Persistent pain around the anus, particularly when sitting or during bowel movements.
- Swelling or Lump: A tender lump near the anus, often accompanied by redness.
- Discharge: Continuous drainage of pus or blood from the opening near the anus.
- Recurrent Abscesses: Regular anal infections or abscesses that may drain spontaneously.
- Foul Smell: Unpleasant odor from the discharge.
- Itching and Irritation: Due to continuous moisture and infection.
- Fever: In cases where the infection becomes severe.
Diagnosis of anal fistula:
The diagnosis of an anal fistula normally involves a thorough medical history review and a detailed physical examination by Dr. Rupali Bandgar-Jankar. To confirm the presence of a fistula and assess its complexity, a variety of diagnostic tools and methods may be used:
- Detailed Medical History: Dr. Bandgar-Jankar starts by gathering a detailed medical history, including any prior infections, abscesses, or signs such as pain, swelling, or drainage around the anus. This helps in understanding the underlying cause of the fistula.
- Physical Examination: A visual inspection and digital examination of the anus can often reveal external openings or signs of infection, such as swelling or discharge.
- Proctoscopy: It helps to identify internal openings or any abnormalities associated with the fistula.
- Anorectal Ultrasound: This advanced imaging technique provides detailed images of the anal canal and surrounding tissues. It helps to determine the fistula’s size, track, and relationship with surrounding structures.
- MRI of the Anorectal Region: This non-invasive imaging method helps evaluate the fistula’s depth, its path, and its relation to other organs like the rectum, sphincter muscles, and pelvic structures.
- Fistulography: A contrast dye may be injected into the fistula to outline the fistulous tract on X-ray. This helps in identifying complex fistulas that may involve multiple branches.
- Endoanal Ultrasound: This is an advanced technique where a small probe is inserted into the anus to produce high-resolution images of the anal canal, identifying fistula tracks and sphincter muscle involvement.
- Anorectal Manometry: This test measures the function of the anal sphincter muscles. It helps determine how well the muscles are working and can rule out other issues that might mimic symptoms of an anal fistula.
Why Use Anorectal Manometry for Fistula in Ano?
Anorectal manometry is a useful diagnostic tool for evaluating fistula in ano. It helps assess the function of the anal sphincter muscles and the rectal pressure, which can be crucial in determining the best treatment approach. By identifying any dysfunction in the muscles controlling bowel movements, anorectal manometry aids in planning more effective surgical interventions, ensuring better outcomes, and reducing the risk of incontinence post-surgery. It provides key insights into the condition, making it a critical part of comprehensive fistula management.
Treatment Options Based on Manometry Results for Fistula in Ano
Manometry is a crucial diagnostic tool used to evaluate the function of the anal sphincter muscles, providing essential insights for tailoring treatment plans for fistula in ano. Based on manometry results, treatment options can be categorized as follows:
1) Conservative Treatment (for Normal Manometry Results): If manometry reveals normal sphincter function, conservative management may be sufficient. This can include:
- Dietary changes: Increasing fiber intake to prevent constipation.
- Sitz baths: To reduce pain and inflammation.
- Topical treatments: Such as ointments to promote healing.
2) Normal Sphincter Function:
- Fistulotomy: Preferred for low, simple fistulas, providing minimal risk to sphincter function.
- Ligation of Intersphincteric Fistula Tract (LIFT): Suitable for complex fistulas with a low risk of incontinence.
3) Compromised Sphincter Function:
- Seton Placement: Used to drain infection while preserving sphincter integrity, especially in patients with reduced sphincter control.
- Fibrin Glue or Collagen Plug: Minimally invasive options for maintaining sphincter function while promoting fistula closure.
4) Severely Impaired Sphincter Function:
- Endoanal Advancement Flap: Useful for high or recurrent fistulas, particularly when sphincter preservation is required.
- Stoma Creation: Considered in severe cases to divert fecal flow and allow healing of complex or recurrent fistulas.
Treatment choice is highly individualized, emphasizing sphincter preservation and function based on the specific manometry findings.
Benefits of Anorectal Manometry in Fistula in Ano Treatment
- Helps in evaluating the function of the anal sphincter muscles.
- Provides critical data for tailoring surgical procedures.
- Detects underlying sphincter dysfunction that may complicate fistula management.
- Help in choosing treatments that preserve continence.
- Reduces the risk of postoperative incontinence by guiding surgical decisions.
- Enables personalized treatment based on sphincter integrity.
- Tracks recovery and functionality post-surgery.
- A non-surgical, safe, and effective diagnostic tool.
- Provides objective data to support clinical judgment.
- Assists in monitoring chronic conditions and preventing recurrence.
When Should You Consider Anorectal Manometry?
Anorectal manometry should be considered when there is suspicion of anal sphincter dysfunction, mainly in cases of complex fistula in ano. It is also advised before surgery to assess sphincter integrity and ensure appropriate treatment planning. Additionally, it can be used postoperatively to monitor healing and detect potential complications like incontinence.
Tips to Prevent Fistula in Ano:
Here are some tips to help reduce the risk of developing this condition:
- Maintain Good Anal Hygiene
- Eat a High-Fiber Diet
- Stay Hydrated
- Prevent Constipation
- Treat Infections Promptly
- Avoid Straining During Bowel Movements
- Avoid Prolonged Sitting
- Exercise Regularly
- Seek Early Treatment for Anal Infections or Abscesses
Why Timely Fistula in Ano Treatment is Essential?
Delaying fistula in ano treatment can lead to difficulties such as:
- Prevention of Infection and Abscess Formation
- Reduces Chronic Discomfort and Pain
- Avoids Fistula Progression
- Minimizes Risk of Recurrence
- Prevents Fecal Incontinence
- Improves Overall Quality of Life
Timely treatment for fistula in ano is essential to prevent complications, reduce discomfort, and improve overall health.
Why Choose Dr. Rupali Bandgar-Jankar for Anal Fistula Treatment in Pune?
Dr. Rupali Bandgar-Jankar is a distinguished female gastroenterologist and gastrointestinal physiologist in Pune with extensive experience in treating anal fistulas. Here’s why she is the preferred choice for anal fistula treatment in Pune:
- Expertise and Experience: Dr. Rupali has over 8 years of experience in diagnosing and managing complex gastrointestinal diseases, including anal fistulas. Her specialized training in gastrointestinal physiology and motility studies ensures accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment.
- Advanced Techniques: Dr. Rupali employs state-of-the-art techniques such as VAAFT, LIFT, and laser treatments, ensuring minimally invasive procedures with excellent outcomes.
- Comprehensive Care: From initial diagnosis to post-treatment follow-up, Dr. Rupali provides holistic care. She emphasizes patient education, guiding people through every step of their treatment journey.
- Patient-Centric Approach: Dr. Rupali believes in compassionate care. Her patient-centric approach focuses on understanding individual needs and tailoring treatments accordingly.
- World-Class Facility: Dr. Rupali practices at Kaizen Gastro Care in Pune, a center equipped with cutting-edge technology and a reliable team of healthcare professionals.
- Women-Centric Care: As a female gastroenterologist, Dr. Rupali is particularly sensitive to the needs of female patients, ensuring they feel comfortable and supported throughout their treatment journey.
Request a Call Back:
If you’re suffering from an anal fistula, don’t let the discomfort persist. Seek help from a specialist like Dr. Rupali Bandgar-Jankar & Dr. Samrat Jankar for precise diagnosis and advanced treatments. At Kaizen Fistula Care, we use state-of-the-art techniques to treat fistulas with minimal discomfort and quick recovery.
To request a callback or schedule an appointment, simply visit Kaizen Gastro Care or call us at 9763635252.
Take the first step towards relief and recovery with expert care from Dr. Rupali Bandgar-Jankar!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's):
It helps assess sphincter integrity and function, ensuring proper planning for surgery and lowering the risk of post-surgical complications like incontinence.
While it does not directly diagnose a fistula, it evaluates the sphincter’s function and integrity, which is important for surgical planning and recovery.
Recurrence is possible, especially with complex fistulas, but proper care and follow-up reduce this risk.
No, fistulas typically do not heal without medical or surgical intervention. Attempting to manage it without treatment can lead to recurrent infections and complications.
Recovery time varies based on the procedure performed and the individual’s healing capacity. Most patients recover within 2-6 weeks, though complete healing of the surgical site may take longer.
You should consult a doctor if you experience:
- Persistent pain or swelling near the anus.
- Recurrent abscesses or pus discharge.
- Difficulty with bowel movements or bleeding.
- Any unexplained symptoms around the anal area.
If you have further questions or concerns, consult a specialist for personalized guidance and treatment.