Fistula Surgery Brisbane & Gold Coast
What is fistula surgery?
The role of surgery in perianal fistula disease is to eradicate the tract between the internal opening (internal anal side) and the external opening (external anal skin). This must be achieved with preservation of the sphincter muscle complex to preserve anal continence. It is common that multiple operations and a combination of procedures are required to eradicate the fistula tract.
Procedures available fistula surgeries include:
Fistulotomy
Insertion of seton
Ligation of intersphincteric tract (LIFT) procedure
Fistula plug
Mucosal advancement flap
Dr Terence Chua is a colorectal surgeon who performs fistula surgery across Brisbane, Redland, Sunnybank and the Gold Coast, Queensland. Depending on the location and length of the fistula tract, Dr Chua will discuss a suitable option to eradicate your fistula tract.
How do I prepare for fistula surgery?
In preparation for surgery, it is important to empty your bowels without a bowel preparation. If required, an enema can be administered at the time of admission to hospital. The procedure is often performed as a day procedure and patients are discharged home on the same day.
What is the recovery like after fistula surgery?
When at home, minor spotting of blood or ooze may persist in the immediate 5 days after the operation and it is important to wear a pad to prevent irritation of the external anal skin. Ensure adequate bowel motion without constipation by a high fibre diet and adequate hydration or use Normafibe as a supplement. Salt baths are useful in soothing the anal pain and can help keep the wound clean.
If you experience high fevers, increasing pain, swelling, significant bleeding or difficulty passing urine, please return to see Dr Chua as soon as possible.