An anal fistula is a painful and often persistent medical condition that can significantly affect your daily life. If left untreated, it can lead to recurring infections and discomfort.
At Amrut Hospital, Dr. Pramod D. Bahekar, a highly experienced fistula treatment doctor in Dombivli, provides both traditional and advanced laser fistula surgery options.
In this article, we’ll explore laser vs traditional fistula surgery in detail so you can understand which option might be right for you.
Understanding Anal Fistulas
What is an Anal Fistula?
An anal fistula is an abnormal tunnel that forms between the anal canal and the skin near the anus. It usually develops after an anal abscess that doesn’t heal properly.
Common causes include:
- Chronic infection in the anal glands.
- Crohn’s disease or inflammatory bowel disease.
- Trauma or surgical complications.
Symptoms may include:
- Persistent pain around the anus.
- Swelling and redness.
- Pus or foul-smelling discharge.
- Recurrent abscesses.
Why Treatment is Essential?
Ignoring a fistula can lead to repeated infections, abscess formation, and even complications involving the anal sphincter muscles.
Early treatment ensures faster recovery and reduces the risk of long-term problems.
What is Traditional Fistula Surgery?
Overview of Traditional Fistulotomy
Traditional fistula surgery, or fistulotomy, is the conventional method of treating anal fistulas. In this procedure, the surgeon cuts open the fistula tract to allow it to heal from the inside out.
Procedure Steps
- Identification of the fistula tract under anesthesia.
- Surgical opening of the tract.
- The wound left to heal naturally over several weeks.
Traditional Fistulotomy Drawbacks
While effective in many cases, there are certain disadvantages:
- Longer healing time – typically 4–6 weeks.
- Higher risk of incontinence for high or complex fistulas.
- More pain and discomfort post-surgery.
- Visible scarring after healing.
What is Laser Fistula Surgery?
Overview of Laser Treatment for Fistula
Laser fistula surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that uses laser energy to close the fistula tract from the inside.
This advanced method preserves healthy tissue and reduces post-operative discomfort.
Procedure Steps
- A thin radial laser fiber is inserted into the fistula tract.
- Controlled laser energy is applied to shrink and seal the tract.
- Minimal tissue damage and no large surgical wounds.
Benefits of Laser Fistula Treatment
- Faster recovery – usually within 1–2 weeks.
- Minimal pain and bleeding during and after surgery.
- Low recurrence rate compared to conventional methods.
- Preserves sphincter muscles, reducing the risk of incontinence.
- Minimal scarring for better cosmetic results.
Laser vs Traditional Fistula Surgery – A Detailed Comparison
|
Aspect |
Traditional Fistulotomy |
Laser Fistula Surgery |
|---|---|---|
|
Invasiveness |
Open surgery with larger wound |
Minimally invasive |
|
Recovery Time |
4–6 weeks or more |
1–2 weeks |
|
Pain & Discomfort |
Moderate to high |
Minimal |
|
Risk of Incontinence |
Higher |
Very low |
|
Recurrence Rate |
Moderate |
Low |
|
Scarring |
Visible |
Minimal |
|
Suitability |
May be needed for very complex tracts |
Suitable for most fistula types |
Choosing the Right Treatment
When Traditional Fistulotomy May Be Recommended?
- For complex fistulas with multiple tracts.
- When laser treatment is not suitable due to anatomy.
When Laser Fistula Surgery is a Better Choice
- For patients seeking faster recovery.
- When avoiding incontinence risk is a priority.
- For recurrent fistulas after previous surgery.
Fistula Treatment in Kalyan & Dombivli
If you are looking for fistula treatment in Kalyan or laser fistula surgery in Dombivli, Dr. Pramod D. Bahekar at Amrut Hospital offers advanced solutions with a patient-first approach.
With years of surgical expertise and modern technology, he ensures safe, effective, and comfortable outcomes for every patient.
Conclusion
When it comes to laser vs traditional fistula surgery, both have their place in medical care. However, laser fistula surgery offers several advantages, including quicker healing, less pain, and a lower risk of incontinence.
For personalized guidance, consult Dr. Pramod D. Bahekar, a trusted fistula treatment doctor in Dombivli, providing high-quality fistula treatment in Kalyan and surrounding areas.