Small glands inside the anal canal can become infected and form an abscess (pus collection). After it bursts or is drained, a tunnel may remain connecting the inside of the anal canal to the skin — this is a fistula. It keeps discharging because it stays connected to the bowel.
Fistulas can be simple (low, single track) or complex (high, branching, recurrent). The type decides the treatment. Read fistula symptoms.
See a doctor urgently if: a hot, rapidly growing, very painful swelling with fever — this may be an abscess needing drainage, especially if you have diabetes. See abscess vs fistula.
| Method | Best for | Key point |
|---|---|---|
| Fistulotomy | Simple, low fistula | Highest cure rate for suitable cases |
| Laser (FiLaC) | Selected fistulas | Sphincter-sparing, minimal pain |
| VAAFT | Complex / branching / recurrent | Camera-guided treatment of all branches |
| Seton / Ksharsutra | High or complex fistula | Staged, protects muscle |
| LIFT / flap | Trans-sphincteric / high fistula | Muscle-preserving closure |
An MRI fistulogram is advised for recurrent or complex fistulas so no branch is missed — the main reason fistulas come back. Read fistula treatment options.
Read more about Dr. Bhupendraa Prrasad.
Procedure; most go home the same day.
Back to desk work after laser/sphincter-saving methods.
Fistulotomy wounds heal from inside out.
Seton-based treatment over weeks to months.
Every patient is different — your own timeline is explained at consultation.
Cost depends on whether the fistula is simple or complex, the method (laser, VAAFT, seton, fistulotomy), whether an MRI is needed, anaesthesia and room category. A clear estimate is given after examination.
Fistula surgery is generally covered by health insurance after the policy's waiting period. See insurance coverage.
Fistula patients — including those with recurrent fistula after previous surgery — come to Bombay Hospital, Vijay Nagar from across Indore and from Dewas, Ujjain, Dhar, Khargone, Khandwa, Ratlam and nearby towns.
Call or WhatsApp to book an OPD time at Bombay Hospital, Vijay Nagar, Indore — or send your reports for an opinion.