Anal fistulas are painful and often recurrent conditions that can affect a person’s comfort, confidence, and day-to-day life. When it comes to fistula-in-ano treatment, the primary goal is to eliminate the fistula tract while ensuring that bowel control remains normal.
This is where sphincter preservation becomes extremely important.
At Amrut Hospital, Dombivli, Dr. Pramod D. Bahekar, a highly experienced anal fistula surgeon in Dombivli, offers advanced laser sphincter-preserving fistula surgery with a strong focus on maintaining continence and preventing recurrence.
Understanding Fistula-in-Ano
What is an Anal Fistula?
An anal fistula is an abnormal tunnel that forms between the inside of the anus and the skin around it. This commonly develops due to a previous anal abscess or infection.
Common symptoms include:
- Pain and discomfort around the anal region
- Swelling or a lump around the anus
- Persistent discharge or pus
- Fever in case of active infection
- Recurrent abscess formation
Why Timely Treatment Matters?
Ignoring a fistula can lead to repeated infections, chronic discharge, and worsening symptoms.
Early and effective fistula-in-ano treatment helps avoid complications and improves the patient’s quality of life.
Traditional Fistula Surgery vs. Sphincter-Preserving Techniques
Conventional Fistulotomy
The conventional method involves cutting open the entire fistula tract. While it can be effective, this approach may involve cutting through part of the sphincter muscle, which increases the risk of incontinence.
Sphincter Saving vs. Conventional Fistulotomy in Anal Fistula
Sphincter-preserving surgeries aim to remove the fistula without damaging the muscle responsible for controlling stool movements.
This approach reduces complications and is especially important in complex fistulas or fistulas located close to the sphincter muscle.
Why Sphincter Preservation is Critical?
What Happens If the Sphincter is Cut During Fistula Surgery?
Cutting or damaging the anal sphincter can lead to:
- Difficulty controlling bowel movements
- Leakage (fecal incontinence)
- Emotional stress and social embarrassment
- Long-term lifestyle limitations
Preserving Continence in Anal Fistula Surgery
The goal of modern anal fistula treatment preserving continence is to effectively treat the fistula while ensuring that the patient maintains normal bowel control. This greatly impacts long-term confidence and quality of life.
Benefits of Sphincter Preserving Fistula Surgery
Choosing a sphincter-sparing procedure offers several advantages:
- Lower risk of incontinence
- Faster healing and quicker recovery
- Reduced pain and discomfort
- Lower recurrence rate
- Improved patient confidence and long-term satisfaction
These are some of the major benefits of sphincter preserving fistula surgery and why it is now widely recommended.
Advanced Techniques for Sphincter Preservation
Laser Fistula Surgery
A minimally invasive approach where a laser is used to seal the fistula tract from within.
- No large cuts
- Less tissue damage
- Faster recovery
VAAFT (Video-Assisted Anal Fistula Treatment)
This technique allows direct visualization of the fistula tract, enabling precise treatment without cutting the sphincter muscle.
LIFT Procedure (Ligation of Intersphincteric Fistula Tract)
A specialized method designed specifically to preserve the sphincter while treating complex fistulas.
Which is the Best Surgery for Fistula-in-Ano to Preserve Sphincter?
The ideal procedure depends on:
- Type of fistula
- Location and depth
- Whether the fistula is recurrent or complex
An experienced surgeon like Dr. Pramod D. Bahekar will assess the condition and recommend the most suitable sphincter-preserving approach.
Anal Fistula Surgery Risks and Sphincter Preservation
Potential Risks
- Recurrence of fistula
- Infection
- Rare risk of sphincter weakness (significantly lower with sphincter-sparing techniques)
How Experienced Surgeons Reduce Risks?
- Accurate anatomical assessment
- Use of precision laser technology
- Careful surgical planning that prioritizes continence
Complex Anal Fistula Surgery in Dombivli
Complex or recurrent fistulas require a surgeon with extensive experience and skill.
Dr. Pramod D. Bahekar specializes in complex anal fistula surgery in Dombivli, offering advanced solutions tailored to each patient’s condition.
Why Choose Dr. Pramod D. Bahekar at Amrut Hospital?
Expertise and Success
- Highly experienced anal fistula surgery doctor in Dombivli
- Specializes in modern, sphincter-preserving treatment methods
- Extensive experience in handling complex and recurrent fistulas
Advanced Laser Surgery Facilities
- Modern operating setup
- Latest surgical tools designed for precision and minimal pain
Patient-Centric Approach
- Detailed diagnosis and explanation of treatment options
- Focus on comfort, continence, and long-term outcomes
Conclusion
Sphincter preservation is one of the most important considerations in fistula-in-ano treatment. It ensures that the fistula is treated effectively without compromising bowel control
For safe, advanced, and anal fistula treatment preserving continence, trust the expertise of Dr. Pramod D. Bahekar at Amrut Hospital, Dombivli — where patient care and long-term quality of life come first.