Anal Fistula in Indianapolis, IN
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Find a ProviderWhat is an anal fistula?
An anal fistula describes the presence of an infected tunnel that develops in the skin and muscular opening at the anus (end of the digestive tract). Anal fistulas are usually a result of an infection in the anal gland. The infection can cause an abscess. This abscess can be drained surgically or will drain naturally. To learn more about this condition, request an appointment with our GI team at Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology. We will answer your concerns and help you get the correct treatment.
What are the signs and symptoms of an anal fistula?
A majority of the signs that point to an anal fistula will involve pain and discomfort. It is important to contact your GI provider in our Indianapolis, IN location when you’ve experienced any of the following signs:
- Discharge
- Bleeding
- Redness
- Fever
- Chills
- Trouble controlling your bowel movements
- Swelling
- Constipation
How is an anal fistula treated?
When the infection has reached a critical state, surgery is generally needed to treat the fistula. This is to successfully drain the pus and to ensure that your GI health is properly maintained. Some of the surgical treatments for this condition include:
Fistulotomy: Where the fistula is opened carefully to allow it to heal from the inside out.
Filling the fistula: In some instances, filling the fistula is the best course of action. This can include filling it with a material your body absorbs as it heals.
Reconstructive surgery: We will review your needs. Reconstruction surgery might be necessary and can be completed in several steps.
Section placement: A suture or rubber band is placed in the fistula and tightened over time. This allows it to heal behind the suture or band to reduce the risk of incontinence.
After your anal fistula treatment, it is important to manage the condition and give yourself as much comfort as possible. There are a few steps you can take to do so. This can include doing the following:
- Wearing a pad over the anal area until healing is complete
- Soaking in a warm bath 3 or 4 times a day
- Using a stool softener or laxative as necessary
- Eating a diet high in fiber and drinking plenty of fluids
Manage your pain and discomfort
Our team at Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology can help if you’re looking for dedicated care for an anal fistula. We will create a personalized treatment plan that works well with your lifestyle and for your specific GI needs. Request an appointment in our Indianapolis, IN office at your earliest convenience to learn more.
Reviews
Dr. Crane is the very best GI doctor I have ever had in my 25 years with Crohn’s. He is patient and understanding to all his patients needs
Was very attentive to my needs and provided me the best of care
Dr.Vincent changed my medication which made a big difference. He was very professional and he listened to my concerns and issues.Thank you for everything .
Dr. Crane was very personable and gave me a doable plan for my treatment. I will be glad to see how well he diagnosed my condition. I am doing the treatment plan and have seen some improvement.
Very little wait time before seeing Doctor Crane. He was was very attentive during my appointment and was familiar with my recent CT scans. Dr Crane answered all of my questions relating to the scans and my condition.
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