Anal fistula
Also commonly called fistula-in-ano
Anal fistulas are small tunnels that develop between the end of the bowel and the skin near the anus
What is an anal fistula?
Anal fistulas can be unpleasant, leading to discomfort and discharge. Quite often, surgery is the only way to get rid of anal fistulas.
Need to know
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What are the symptoms of an anal fistula? icon plus
Symptoms of anal fistulas can range in severity, from mildly bothersome to distressing. They might include:
- irritated skin around your anus
- swelling and redness around your anus
- fever if you also have an abscess
- constant, throbbing pain
- unable to control bowel movements
- smelly discharge from near your anus
- pus or blood in your stools
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How is an anal fistula diagnosed? icon plus
Your GP will discuss your symptoms with you. They may also carry out a physical examination of your back passage. Depending on your symptoms, they may also recommend other tests for a later date.
These might include:- an MRI scan: MRI scans also produce high-quality images but they tend to be used for recurrent fistulas or complex fistulas brought on by Crohn's disease.
- an endoanal ultrasound: An endoanal ultrasound is a quick scan that can produce high-quality images of your insides. It tends to be used if anal fistulas are of some clinical concern.
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Potential treatment options icon plus
Quite often, the only way to get rid of anal fistulas is surgery. Your consultant may recommend inserting a seton (a loop of thread that allows drainage and healing of the fistula) or a fistulotomy, which involves cutting the anal fistula so that it heals into a flat scar.
There are other surgical options, including covering the end of a fistula tunnel with a flap of tissue, small clip or filling it with a special glue. Your consultant will recommend the best course of action for you.
Our colorectal consultants
We have specialists who are experienced in diagnosing rectal and colon problems and can talk you through the options available for treatment and option might best suit your condition.
Our locations
From complex colorectal surgery to investigative tests and procedures, we provide exceptional care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
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The Wellington Hospital Gastroenterology Unit
21 Wellington Road
St Johns Wood
London NW8 9SQ
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The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place
London W1U 5NY
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The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road
London
SW1W 8RH
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London Digestive Centre
41 Welbeck Street
London
W1G 8DU
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London Digestive Surgery
41 Welbeck Street
London
W1G 8DU
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London Digestive Health
2nd Floor
41 Welbeck Street
London W1G 8DU
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London Digestion
HCA UK at The Shard
32 St Thomas Street
London SE1 9BS
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The Wellington Hospital Endoscopy Centre
21 Wellington Hospital
St Johns Wood
London NW8 9SQ
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The Wellington Digestive Health Centre
21 Wellington Road
St Johns Wood
London NW8 9SQ
Book an appointment
Our team can help with any enquiries or you can make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.
Call us today
020 7079 4344