Anal fistula surgery
Surgery to remove anal fistulas
Our Lower GI and colorectal general surgeons specialise in removing anal fistulas
What is an anal fistula?
Anal fistulas are small tunnels that can develop between the end of your rectum and the skin near your anus. Fistulas can get better on their own. But in other cases, surgery may be the only way to get rid of them.
We specialise in various techniques for treating anal fistulas, including:
- Fistulotomy. The fistula is cut open and laid out flat, but only if there's no risk to the anal sphincter.
- Seton technique. This involves inserting a surgical thread through the fistula to make a loop and bring it to the surface.
- Advancement flap procedure. Normally carried out after a fistulotomy to cover a fistula opening to prevent infections.
- Bioprosthetic plug. This involves blocking the internal opening in a fistula to let it heal gradually. The outside opening can then be drained of pus.
Need to know
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What type of surgery will I need? icon plus
Your consultant's preferred surgical technique will depend on the type of fistula you have, its location and whether it crosses your anal sphincters. Whichever one they choose, you'll most likely be under general anaesthetic. -
How to prepare for surgery icon plus
You'll most likely be asked to attend a pre-procedure assessment, where your consultant or specialist nurse will explain the procedure. They'll also answer any questions you might have, and inform you of any risks and side effects involved. -
After surgery and recovery icon plus
Depending on the nature of your fistula, you may be able to go home on the day of your surgery. Otherwise, we'll transfer you to our recovery ward where we'll care for you until you're discharged.
Your consultant will advise when you can get back to your usual routine, including work or exercise. Fistula surgery wounds can take several weeks to heal, and you may experience a little discharge and bleeding from the wound. Your consultant or specialist nurse will explain what else to expect during your post-op period.
Our colorectal consultants
Our locations
From complex surgery to straightforward procedures, we provide exceptional care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
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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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The Wellington Digestive Health Centre
21 Wellington Road
St Johns Wood
London NW8 9SQ
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London Digestion
HCA UK at The Shard
32 St Thomas Street
London SE1 9BS
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The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place
London W1U 5NY
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London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street
London
SE1 2PR
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The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road
London
SW1W 8RH
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London Colorectal Group
London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street
London SE1 2PR
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HCA UK at The Shard
The Shard
32 St Thomas Street
London SE1 9BS
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