The fistula is a painful condition. It is an abnormal connection between two organs or vessels that do not connect. If you or your dear one is dealing with this condition, you must be interested in learning about the treatment for fistula.
Before we proceed, you must know that fistula treatment may vary from person to person. It depends on the fistula’s location, size, complexity, and cause. Fistula treatment focuses on preventing infection, closing the abnormal connection, and preserving the function of the affected organs or vessels.
Treatment of Fistula
Fistula treatment is possible with the help of one or a combination of the following procedures:
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Medication
If the primary cause of this disease is inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, doctors may recommend a few medicines. Your doctor may prescribe immunosuppressants, antibiotics, and biological therapies. These medicines treat inflammation, infection, and drainage from the fistula.
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Surgery
Most fistulas require surgery. Depending on the location and complexity, some surgical options are listed below.
- Fistulotomy: This procedure involves cutting the fistula tunnel open, scraping and flushing out the infected tissue, and then flattening and stitching the tunnel. This is the most common and effective surgery for simple fistulas that do not involve the sphincter muscles, which control the release of stool from the anus.
- Endorectal advancement flap: The process requires forming a flap from the rectal wall before excising the fistula’s internal opening. Surgeons use this flap to conceal the repair. By using this technique, the extent of the sphincter muscle incision can be minimised, thus maintaining stool continence.
- Seton placement: This involves inserting a thin, flexible thread or rubber band through the fistula tunnel and tying it outside the anus. This helps drain the pus and fluid from the fistula and prevents infection. A seton can also help reduce the pressure and inflammation in the fistula, allowing it to heal gradually.
- Fibrin glue or plug: The process includes injecting a special glue or plug made from natural or synthetic materials into the fistula tunnel. This helps seal the fistula and promote healing. Healthcare providers can perform this minimally invasive and painless procedure in the office or outpatient setting. However, the success rate of this procedure is low, and the fistula may recur.
- Ligation of the inter-sphincteric fistula tract (LIFT): This procedure starts with making a small incision in the skin between the internal and external sphincter muscles and cutting the fistula tract. The fistula’s inner opening is then closed with stitches, and the outward opening is left to drain. This procedure can preserve the sphincter muscles and avoid incontinence.
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Nonsurgical Treatments
Some fistulas may heal with nonsurgical treatments, especially if they are small, simple, and not infected. The treatment options include the following —
- Diet and nutrition: Diet can help improve the immune system and prevent infection. Some foods or drinks that may irritate the fistula or cause diarrhoea should be avoided, such as spicy, fatty foods, alcohol, caffeine, and dairy products. Drinking enough fluids can help keep the stool soft and prevent constipation.
- Wound care: Keeping the fistula area clean and dry can help overcome infection and promote healing. The fistula should be washed gently with warm water and soap at least once daily and after each bowel movement. Cover the fistula with a soft gauze or pad to absorb the drainage. Change the dressing regularly and dispose of it properly.
- Pain relief: Some fistulas may cause pain or discomfort, especially when sitting or passing stool. You can achieve pain relief by using over-the-counter or prescription painkillers, such as Ibuprofen, Acetaminophen, or Codeine. Applying a warm compress or sitz bath to the fistula area can also help soothe the pain and inflammation.
Conclusion
Facing a fistula is a serious deal, and getting the proper treatment upfront is critical. The approach to treating a fistula depends on its location, how big it is, how complicated things are, and what caused it in the first place. The treatment options range from taking medicines to undergoing surgery or trying out non-surgical methods. Fistula treatment can sometimes be costly. Make sure you have the best health insurance to deal with medical bills.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.