Lateral sphincterotomy

SURGERY FOR ANAL FISSURES

Our surgeons can carry out this procedure to treat complicated anal fissures, if other treatments have failed

What are anal fissures?

Anal fissures are small tears near your back passage. They can be extremely painful and sometimes lead to bleeding after you poo.

If your internal anal sphincter muscle spasms, it can reduce blood flow to the area, stopping it from healing. If this happens, we can carry out a lateral sphincterotomy.

Need to know

What happens during surgery?

Your consultant will start by making a tiny cut in an area of skin near your back passage. This will let them access your internal anal sphincter muscle and cut a few strands of muscle.

This will improve the flow of blood to your fissure and help it heal. This simple procedure is carried out under general anaesthetic.

How to prepare

Your consultant will explain the procedure to you and answer any questions you might have.

Like all procedures, there may be some risks and side effects involved. Your consultant will explain these to you.

What to expect after surgery

A lateral sphincterotomy is a relatively effective treatment — in some cases, some people experience a decrease in fissure-related pain within a day of the procedure. You should be able to go home on the day of your surgery.

Your consultant or nurse specialist will let you know when you can get back to your usual routine, including work or exercise. They'll also give you laxatives for the first few days to soften the stool and allow healing of the small anal wound.