Anal Fistula Surgery Dubai

Anal fistula surgery Dubai is a surgical procedure that is performed to treat an anal fistula, which is an abnormal tunnel that develops between the anus and the skin surrounding the anus. This condition can cause pain, discomfort, and discharge. Anal fistulas are usually caused by an infection in the anal glands, which can spread and form a tunnel.

The anus is an external organ of our body through which we excrete fecal waste. In the anus, there are located multiple numbers of small glands. These glands sometimes get blocked, leading to the formation of an infected cavity known as an abscess. These anal abscesses if left untreated can develop into an anal fistula.

For multi-disciplinary patient-centered care to improve quality of life and overall health outcomes, most people travel to UAE as some advanced hospitals have board-certified doctors who use the latest technology and information management protocols to treat anal fistula Dubai. Dr. Sadir Alrawi, heading Neuro Spinal Oncology Center, combines expertise and knowledge to provide minimally invasive best anal fistula surgery Dubai.

While some fistulae have only one opening, there are others that are branched out into many openings. They are sometimes connected to the sphincter muscles – the muscles that open and close the anus. The ends of the fistula look like holes on the surface of the skin around the anus. Anal fistulas are commonly treated through surgery.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF ANAL FISTULA SURGERY DUBAI

Depending on where it is and how severe it is, an anal fistula can present with various symptoms.The below mentioned are the commonly observed anal fistula symptoms:

• Persistent pain: Pain is a common symptom of anal fistulas, particularly during bowel movements or when sitting for extended periods. The pain is often described as a throbbing or aching sensation around the anus.
• Drainage of pus or blood: An anal fistula may cause the drainage of pus or blood from an opening near the anus. This discharge is often foul-smelling and may be accompanied by itching or irritation.
• Swelling and redness: The area around the anus may appear swollen, inflamed, and tender to the touch. Redness and warmth can also be present.
• Recurrent abscesses: Anal fistulas are often associated with recurring abscesses, which are painful collections of pus. These abscesses can cause additional symptoms such as fever, chills, and a general feeling of being unwell.
• Itching and irritation: The drainage from an anal fistula can cause itching and irritation around the anus, leading to discomfort and a constant urge to scratch the area.
• Changes in bowel movements: Some individuals with anal fistulas may experience changes in their bowel movements. It can include difficulty passing stool, constipation, or mucus in the stool.

If you notice any of these signs and symptoms, visit the best cancer care center, Neuro Spinal in Dubai, for treatment.

Causes

Various underlying factors can contribute to the development of an anal fistula. These include:

• Anal Abscess: A rectal or anal abscess is a collection of pus brought on by an infection of the anal gland. An anal fistula may develop if the abscess is not treated correctly or the infection spreads.
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Conditions such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, which fall under the category of inflammatory bowel disease, can increase the risk of developing anal fistulas. The chronic inflammation associated with these conditions can lead to the formation of abnormal connections and tunnels in the anal region.
• Trauma or Injury: Anal tissues can be damaged by trauma or injury, which may result in the formation of an anal fistula. Examples include a tear during childbirth, surgery in the anal area, or penetrating traumas.
• Prior Anal Surgery: Previous surgeries in the anal area, such as hemorrhoidectomy or rectal abscess drainage, can occasionally result in the formation of an anal fistula. It can occur due to complications during the healing process or the persistence of an infection.
• Tuberculosis: In rare cases, tuberculosis (TB) can cause anal fistulas. TB can affect various parts of the body, including the anus, and cause the development of fistulas.

Risk Factors

An anal fistula can become more likely to form if several risk factors exist. These factors may contribute to the development of an infection or an underlying condition that can lead to the formation of a fistula, and you may need to undergo anal fistula surgery in Dubai. Common risk factors include:

1. Obesity: Anal fistulas are more likely to develop in obese people. Being overweight can strain the anal region, causing inflammation and a higher risk of infection.
2. Diabetes: Diabetes can impair wound healing and weaken the immune system, which raises the possibility of fistula formation.
3. Immunodeficiency: Conditions or medications that weaken the immune system, such as HIV/AIDS, organ transplantation, or chemotherapy, can make individuals more susceptible to infections and increase the risk of developing anal fistulas.
4. Smoking: Smoking has been linked to impaired wound healing and increased risk of infections. It can also negatively affect blood circulation, which may hinder the healing process and contribute to the development of anal fistulas.
5. Gender: Men are more likely to develop anal fistulas than women. It may be due to factors such as higher rates of certain conditions in men or differences in anatomy.
6. Poor Hygiene: Inadequate hygiene in the anal area, such as improper cleaning after bowel movements, can contribute to the development of infections that may lead to fistulas.

DIAGNOSIS OF ANAL FISTULA

Diagnosing an anal fistula involves a combination of medical history review, physical examination, and sometimes additional tests. Here is an overview of the diagnostic process for anal fistulas:

• Medical History: The healthcare provider will ask you about your symptoms, including pain, discharge, swelling, or any previous episodes of anal abscesses. They may also inquire about your medical history, including any underlying conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease or diabetes.
• Physical Examination: The healthcare provider will physically examine the anal area. They will visually inspect the anus and surrounding skin for any signs of inflammation, swelling, or external openings. They may also gently examine the inside of the anus using a gloved finger to feel for internal openings or tracts.
• Imaging Tests: In some cases, imaging tests may be recommended to evaluate the extent and complexity of the fistula. The most common imaging tests used for diagnosing anal fistulas include:
• • Ultrasound: A transrectal ultrasound can help visualize the fistula tract, depth, and associated abscesses.
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): An MRI scan can provide detailed images of the fistula, allowing the healthcare provider to assess its course, internal openings, and any related abscesses. MRI is beneficial in complex cases or when surgical planning is necessary.
• Fistulogram: In certain situations, a contrast material may be injected into the fistula tract to obtain a fistulogram. This imaging technique helps visualize the anatomy and aids in surgical planning.

If you are diagnosed with an anal fistula, do no more holdups and right away confer with a doctor, and to get the best anal fistula surgery Dubai, visit Neuro Spinal cancer care center.

TREATMENT OF ANAL FISTULA

Non-surgical treatments can sometimes be considered for anal fistulas, particularly for simple or low-risk fistulas. These non-surgical treatment options aim to promote healing and closure of the fistula without needing anal fistula surgery in Dubai. Here are some non-surgical treatment options:

1. Antibiotics: Antibiotics may be prescribed if there is an active infection or abscess associated with the fistula. Antibiotics help control the infection and reduce inflammation, which can promote healing. However, antibiotics alone are not typically curative for an anal fistula and are often combined with other treatments.
2. Fistula Plug: A fistula plug is a biocompatible material inserted into the fistula tract to promote closure. The plug acts as a scaffold for tissue growth and can help seal the fistula. 
3. Fibrin Glue Injection: Fibrin glue, a biological adhesive, can be injected into the fistula tract to seal it. The glue promotes tissue healing and closure of the fistula. Fibrin glue injection is a minimally invasive procedure typically performed on an outpatient basis. 
4. Seton Placement: Seton placement, as mentioned earlier, can also be considered a non-surgical option. A seton is a surgical thread or tube placed through the fistula tract to promote drainage and prevent closure. It allows the fistula to heal gradually from the inside out. Seton placement is often used for complex or high-risk fistulas.
5. Medications for Underlying Conditions: If the anal fistula is associated with an underlying condition like Crohn’s disease or tuberculosis, appropriate medical treatment for the underlying condition may be initiated. Managing the underlying condition can help control inflammation and promote the healing of the fistula.

Surgical treatment is often necessary to effectively manage anal fistulas. Here are some common anal fistula surgery Dubai treatments for anal fistulas:

1. Fistulotomy: Fistulotomy is the most common surgical procedure for anal fistulas. It involves making an incision along the entire length of the fistula tract to remove it. The incision allows for drainage and promotes healing from the inside out. This procedure is generally performed under anesthesia, and the wound is left open to heal over time.
2. Seton Placement: A seton is a surgical thread or tube placed through the fistula tract to keep it open and facilitate drainage. Seton placement is often used for complex or high-risk fistulas, such as those involving multiple tracts or those close to critical structures. The seton may be made of materials that gradually dissolve or may require removal in a subsequent procedure.
3. Advancement Flap Repair: In some cases, an advancement flap repair may be performed. This procedure involves dissecting healthy tissue near the fistula and using it to create a flap, which is then advanced to cover the internal opening. This technique helps close the fistula while preserving the anal sphincter function. 
4. Fibrin Glue Injection: Fibrin glue is a biological adhesive that can be injected into the fistula tract to seal it. This method can be used as an outpatient operation and is acceptable for some low-risk fistulas. For best outcomes, fibrin glue injection may need numerous treatments.
5. LIFT Procedure: The LIFT (ligation of intersphincteric fistula tract) procedure is a minimally invasive technique used for complex fistulas. It involves identifying and dividing the fistula tract from the sphincter muscles, followed by the closure of the internal opening. The LIFT procedure aims to preserve the sphincter function while effectively treating the fistula.

As part of the pre-surgical process, the doctor advised the patients to stop smoking, fast for 6 hours needed to be done before surgery, and the patients were given enemas an hour before the surgery to empty the bowel. General anesthesia is specified for conducting anal fistula surgery Dubai. The type of surgery depends on the situation of the fistula:

1. Advanced Flap Procedure –– If your fistula passes in the course of the anal sphincter muscles and there is a high threat of causing incontinence, an advanced flap procedure may be suggested. In this surgery, the fistula is cut and scraped out. The hole is then covered with a flap of tissue that is taken from inside the rectum. This is the final part of the bowel.
2. Bioprosthetic Plug –– A bioprosthetic plug-in inserted where fistulotomy carries a high risk of incontinence. It is a cone-shaped plug made from animal tissue and is used for blocking the internal opening of the fistula. This is an effective treatment for anal fistula; however, still, research studies are ongoing to be more certain about its impact.
3. Lift Procedure –– The Ligation of the intersphincteric Fistula Tract (LIFT) – a comparatively new process to treat anal fistulas. It’s healing considered for fistulas that go by all the way through the anal sphincter muscles where conducting fistulotomy would be uncertain.

More invasive surgical procedures:

In addition to the surgical treatments mentioned earlier, more invasive anal fistula surgery Dubai procedures are available for complex or recurrent anal fistulas. These procedures are typically reserved for cases where more straightforward approaches have failed or are unsuitable. Here are a few examples:

1. Fistula Excision with Primary Closure: This procedure involves complete excision of the fistula tract, including any associated abscesses. After excision, the resulting wound is closed with sutures. This technique aims to remove the entire fistula tract and promote healing without leaving an open wound. It is often used for complex or recurrent fistulas.
2. Gracilis Muscle Interposition: In cases of complex or recurrent fistulas, the gracilis muscle, a muscle in the inner thigh, can be mobilised and interposed into the fistula tract. The muscle provides a healthy tissue barrier to promote the closure of the fistula. This procedure is more invasive and may be considered for challenging cases.
3. Colorectal or Plastic Surgery Consultation: In complex or difficult-to-treat cases, a referral to a colorectal surgeon or a plastic surgeon with expertise in reconstructive procedures may be necessary. These specialists can offer advanced surgical techniques, such as tissue flaps or grafts, to reconstruct the affected area and close the fistula.

Is any follow-up treatment necessary for anal fistula surgery Dubai?

Yes, follow-up treatment is often necessary after the surgical management of an anal fistula. Here are some common aspects of follow-up treatment for anal fistulas:

1. Postoperative Care: After anal fistula surgery Dubai, you will likely have specific wound care and hygiene instructions. It may include keeping the area clean, using sitz baths, and applying prescribed ointments or dressings.
2. Follow-up Visits: Your healthcare provider will schedule follow-up visits to monitor the healing process, evaluate any signs of infection or complications, and assess the closure of the fistula. 
3. Imaging Studies: In some cases, imaging studies such as ultrasounds or MRI scans may be repeated during the follow-up period to assess the progress of healing, confirm closure of the fistula, and detect any recurrence or persistent tracts.
4. Adjustments to Treatment: Depending on the individual response to treatment and the outcomes of follow-up evaluations, adjustments to the treatment plan may be necessary. It could involve further surgical interventions, medication changes, or additional procedures.
5. Management of Complications: Complications, such as infection, abscess formation, or fistula recurrence, may occur even after surgical treatment. If any complications arise, it is essential to seek prompt medical attention for appropriate management and follow-up care.
6. Long-term Monitoring: Some individuals may require long-term monitoring, especially if the underlying condition is present. Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider specialising in colorectal conditions may be recommended.

RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS OF THE SURGERY

There are no major risks involved in anal fistula surgery Dubai. However, there are a few complications such as:

• Infection
• Narrowing of the anal canal
• Damage to sphincter muscles
• Re-occurrence of fistula
• Bleeding

The well-qualified and board-certified doctors at Cancer Care Specialties, Dubai, part of Neuro Spinal Cancer Center, will assess your condition and put forward the best fistula specialist near you.