Anal Fissures
Fissures are painful breaks in the skin or lining of the anal canal that can be incredibly uncomfortable. Most patients experience pain on passing a bowel motion which can persist through the day. The pain is due to spasm of the anal sphincter complex and can be quite debilitating.
Understanding an Anal Fissure
Treatment Options for Anal Fissures
Treatment involves avoiding constipation and protecting the skin near the anal canal by using wet wipes and applying emollients or protective creams.
Some topical ointments can help. Rectogesic is a brand of ointment which helps by relaxing the sphincter spasm. Diltiazem is another ointment which can be prescribed as an alternative which is often better tolerated but is made specially through a compounding pharmacy. Dr Urquhart can discuss all these options with you.
In cases in which there is a persistent or troublesome fissure, an injection of botox can help. This is a fairly quick day surgery procedure completed under a light general anaesthetic. During the procedure an injection of botox is administered to relax the sphincter spasm relieving the pain and also allowing the underlying fissure to heal. There are other surgical options also available for complex fissures which can be discussed during your consultation.