What happens if it doesn’t work?
Fistulas are connections formed between two body regions following surgery or other medical treatments that allow fluids to pass from one area of the body to another. Fistulas are usually surgically formed to offer a direct link for fluid drainage or to circumvent clogged pathways in the body. An anal fistula is a frequent form of fistula. It is a faulty connection between the anal canal and another organ, most often the skin around the anus. In most cases, it is caused by a bacterial infection in an anal gland that spreads to the skin. They are a frequent but significant medical disease that may necessitate surgery performed by the finest gastroenterologist. Although surgical treatments for anal fistulas are often effective, there is always the chance of failed fistulotomy surgery resulting in the need for subsequent corrective therapy from the fistula treatment center.
- Infection occurs when a fistula fails. It can also lead to an obstruction. This can be caused by scar tissue that builds around your fistula and obstructs the passage of digestive fluids. When you utilize a blocked fistula, you may experience discomfort, and the output of the fistula may be discolored or include blood.
- Failed fistula surgery can result in incontinence or an abscess in some circumstances, such as anal. Before undergoing any treatment, patients should discuss these risks with their physician and be aware of potential signals that the initial operation was unsuccessful.
- Typical signs of a failed fistula surgery include prolonged wound drainage, recurring discomfort and infection in the region, and a lack of healing after many weeks. In rare circumstances, MRI imaging may be required to identify whether or not the location is still inflamed.
- Age and certain medical problems, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, increase the likelihood of fistula failure. Moreover, some lifestyle variables like as smoking and drug use might increase the likelihood of a botched surgery.
- Those who are considering undergoing any type of fistulotomy surgery should discuss their risk factors with their doctor ahead of time in order to minimize problems. Fistula failure may necessitate reoperation or corrective surgery in some circumstances to restore appropriate function.
