What Is Fistula-in-Ano?
A fistula-in-ano is an abnormal tunnel (tract) connecting the inside of the anal canal to the skin around the anus. It typically develops after an anorectal abscess that did not heal completely. Fistulas are notorious for high recurrence rates with conventional surgery — which is why advanced laser fistula treatment in Pune by Dr. Satish Jadhav is transforming patient outcomes.
How Does an Anal Fistula Form?
Most anal fistulas arise from:
- A perianal abscess (infection in the anal glands)
- Inadequate treatment of the abscess
- The abscess drains partially and forms a chronic tract
Less common causes include Crohn’s disease, tuberculosis, trauma, radiation, and sexually transmitted infections.
Classification of Fistula-in-Ano
- Intersphincteric (most common, 70%) — passes between the internal and external sphincters
- Transsphincteric — passes through both sphincters
- Suprasphincteric — loops over the external sphincter
- Extrasphincteric (most complex) — passes outside both sphincters
Symptoms of Anal Fistula
- Persistent discharge of pus or blood from an opening near the anus
- Recurrent perianal abscesses (swelling, pain, fever)
- Irritation, itching and discomfort around the anus
- Pain that worsens with movement or bowel movements
- A visible external opening (secondary opening) near the anus
- Foul odour from the discharge
Diagnosis at Our Wakad, Pune Centre
Dr. Satish Jadhav performs a thorough evaluation including:
- Clinical examination (Goodsall’s rule to predict fistula tract)
- Proctoscopy / sigmoidoscopy
- MRI fistulogram (gold standard for complex fistulas)
- Endoanal ultrasound
Advanced Fistula Treatment Options at Our Pune Centre
1. VAAFT (Video-Assisted Anal Fistula Treatment)
VAAFT is a revolutionary minimally invasive technique where a miniature camera (fistuloscope) is inserted into the fistula tract under vision. The tract is then destroyed from inside using laser/electrocoagulation. Benefits:
- Sphincter-preserving — zero risk of incontinence
- Day-care procedure
- Success rate: 80–85% for simple fistulas
- Recurrence rate: significantly lower than conventional surgery
2. FiLaC (Fistula-Laser Closure)
FiLaC uses a radial-emitting laser fibre to obliterate the fistula tract from inside out. The internal opening is closed with a mucosal flap. Benefits:
- Completely sphincter-safe
- Outpatient procedure under local anaesthesia
- Minimal post-operative pain
- Back to normal activities in 2–3 days
3. LIFT (Ligation of Inter-sphincteric Fistula Tract)
For transsphincteric fistulas, LIFT procedure ligates and divides the fistula tract in the inter-sphincteric space, preserving sphincter function with 70–80% success rate.
Why Laser Fistula Surgery in Pune Is Better Than Conventional Fistulotomy
Conventional fistulotomy involves cutting open the entire fistula tract — effective but risks faecal incontinence (1–10%) and requires weeks of open wound healing. Laser techniques at Dr. Jadhav’s Wakad centre:
- ✅ Zero incontinence risk — sphincter preserved completely
- ✅ Closed wound — no open wound to dress
- ✅ Day-care surgery — no hospitalisation needed
- ✅ Faster recovery — 2–3 days vs 4–6 weeks for conventional
- ✅ Repeatable if needed, without damage
FAQ — Fistula Treatment in Wakad, Pune
Q: Can a fistula heal without surgery?
A: No. Anal fistulas do not heal on their own. Medical treatment can reduce symptoms but surgical/laser treatment is required for permanent cure.
Q: What is the recurrence rate after laser fistula treatment?
A: Recurrence depends on fistula type. Simple fistulas have less than 10% recurrence with VAAFT or FiLaC. Complex fistulas may need staged procedures.
Q: Is fistula surgery covered by insurance?
A: Yes. We accept cashless insurance for fistula treatment in Pune. Pre-authorisation can be arranged on the same day.
Q: How do I know if I have a fistula or just a perianal abscess?
A: An abscess is an acute swelling with severe pain and fever. A fistula causes chronic discharge from an opening near the anus. Both need specialist evaluation — call us for a same-day consultation.
Consult Dr. Satish Jadhav for Fistula Treatment in Pune
Dr. Satish Jadhav — MD, FPC, CCKS — is Pune’s foremost specialist in laser fistula treatment, with advanced training in VAAFT and FiLaC techniques. Our clinic in Wakad is accessible from Hinjewadi, Baner, Balewadi, Pimpri-Chinchwad, and central Pune.
📞 Call / WhatsApp: +91 9665612777
📍 2nd Floor, T Junction Building, Mankar Chowk, Kaspate Wasti Road, Wakad, Pune 411057
⏰ Mon–Sat: 9 AM – 9 PM | Book Online Appointment