Anal Abscess and Fistula
What exactly is a perianal abscess?
An infection in a mucous-secreting gland in the anal canal around your anus causes a perianal abscess.
What exactly is a perianal fistula?
A perianal fistula, almost always the result of a previous abscess, is a small passage connecting the anal gland from which the abscess arose to the skin where the abscess was drained.
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What exactly causes an abscess?
When a small gland just inside the anus becomes infected due to bacteria or stool trapped in the gland, an abscess forms. Certain conditions, such as constipation, diarrhea, colitis, or other intestine inflammation, may make these infections more likely.
What causes a fistula to form?
After an abscess is drained, a passage between the anal gland and the skin may remain, resulting in a fistula. If the gland does not heal, drainage will continue through this passage. A recurrent abscess may develop if the outside opening of the fistula heals first.
What are the signs and symptoms of an abscess or a fistula?
Perianal abscesses are characterized by severe anal pain and swelling. Fever is a possibility. The pain and pressure are relieved by draining the abscess, either alone or with an incision. Fistulas are caused by the drainage of blood, pus, or mucus, but they are rarely painful.
Is it true that an abscess always develops into a fistula?
No. A fistula can form in up to 50% of all abscess cases. It is impossible to predict whether or not this will occur. If the drainage continues for two to three months, a perianal fistula is diagnosed.
What is the treatment for an abscess?
An abscess is treated by draining the pus through a skin opening near the anus. A large or deep abscess may necessitate surgical drainage. Patients who are vulnerable to more serious infections, such as diabetics or those with weakened immune systems, may require hospitalization.
What is the treatment for a fistula?
Surgery is usually required to treat a perianal fistula. Typically, this entails cutting a small portion of the anal sphincter muscle to open the passage, joining the external and internal openings, and converting the passage into a groove that will then heal from the inside out. The majority of fistula surgeries can be done as outpatient procedures. A two-stage procedure or a more complicated repair may be required if the fistula involves much more sphincter muscle.
What can I expect following fistula surgery?
For the first week following fistula surgery, pain may be mild to moderate and can be managed with pain medication. T Soak the affected area three or four times per day in warm water. Stool softeners may also be advised. Bowel movements have no effect on healing.
Will an abscess or fistula recur?
If proper healing occurs, the problem is unlikely to reoccur. If your bowel movements are otherwise normal, you are unlikely to develop another abscess.
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