Anorectal Fistula (Fistula-in-Ano)

A fistula is an abnormal tract or passage connecting two parts of the body or the inside to the surface of the skin. In the case of an anorectal fistula, the tract usually connects the inside of the anorectal canal to a drain in the skin.

Please see conventional, complimentary and alternative medical treatments for important background information regarding the different types of medical treatments discussed on this page. Naturopathic, Complimentary and Alternative treatments that may be considered include:

• Discharge of pus, feces, or flatulence through an opening in the skin near the anus or into the vagina.
• Pain or itching around the anus.

• Secondary to a ruptured or drained abscess (most common).
• Tuberculosis.
• Cancer.
• Inflammatory bowel disease.

•  >   
  Pruritus ani.

Superficial fistulas can be treated using minor surgical techniques, involving careful incision along the course of the tract to open the fistula. An electric cutting current is useful for this purpose. The edges of the fistula are then shaved off using electrodessication in order to promote healing from the inside out and to discourage premature healing of the outer surface.

Care must be taken to avoid cutting too much of the anal sphincter muscle, in order to prevent postoperative anal incontinence.

Recurrence after surgery is common (20% or more). Surgical removal of too much muscle, especially high in the anal canal or with repeated surgery, is associated with the risk of anal incontinence.