Anal Fistulas
Perianal fistulas often commence as an infected oil gland in the anal canal which ruptures at the skin resulting in a connection (or tunnel) between the anal canal and the skin. A fistula can result in discharge, pain or recurrent infections. Dr Urquhart has been specially trained in complex and recurrent fistulae.
An Insight into Anal Fistulas
Treatment Options for Anal Fistulas
The treatment is highly specialised and will depend on severally factors. Occasionally fistula surgery requires a series of procedures to best treat the condition.
Seton drain: this is a rubber band often placed in the first instance when the fistula is diagnosed. A seton drain helps to control the infection that can occur when people have fistulas. They work by preventing infection build up in a fistula. Usually they are placed in the first instance as a bridge to definitive surgery.
Excision: if possible a fistula may be surgically excised.
Reconstruction/Sealing/closing the fistula tract: if the fistula tract cannot be excised, the tract may be sealed up or closed using different techniques. Options include clips, plugs or advancement flaps that help to seal up the tract through different methods. Dr Urquhart can explain these options in depth during your consultation. Each operation is tailored towards your specific case.