Anal fissure
Cost: $3,175 USD
Hospitalization duration: 2 days
What is Anal Fissure Treatment?
Anal fissure treatment is a surgical procedure performed to repair an anal fissure, which is a small tear in the lining of the anal canal. This condition can cause severe pain, especially during bowel movements, and is often associated with bleeding and spasms in the anal sphincter muscles. Surgery is recommended when anal fissures do not respond to conservative treatments, such as creams, dietary changes, and muscle relaxants.
During the procedure, the surgeon makes a small incision in the internal anal sphincter muscle to reduce tension and allow the fissure to heal properly. This treatment helps relieve pain and prevent new fissures from forming.
Includes
- Medical Team
Surgery is performed by a team specializing in proctology or general surgery, ensuring a safe and effective procedure to treat anal fissure.
- Laboratory
Includes complete pre-surgical studies to evaluate the patient’s general health and ensure that he or she is in optimal condition for surgery.
- Office
Chest imaging examination using a telescopic chest x-ray to rule out respiratory or cardiac problems that may affect the safety of surgery and the use of anesthesia.
- Preoperative evaluation by Internal Medicine + EKG
A detailed evaluation by an internist and an electrocardiogram (EKG) to ensure that the patient is in adequate condition for the procedure.
- Postoperative visits
Follow-up after surgery to monitor the healing of the fissure and ensure that the patient experiences a reduction in symptoms.
- Pathology study
In some cases, tissue removed during surgery is sent to the laboratory for pathological analysis, especially if other conditions are suspected in the affected area.
Preparing for surgery
For the treatment of an anal fissure, the medical team usually recommends:
- Fasting for at least 6 to 8 hours before surgery if general anesthesia will be used.
- Discontinuation of certain medications, especially those that may interfere with coagulation, under the doctor’s instructions.
- Careful cleaning of the anal area according to medical instructions to minimize the risk of infection.
Recovery
Recovery from anal fissure surgery is relatively quick, but there may be some tenderness in the treated area. Typical recommendations include:
- Avoid strenuous physical exertion for at least 1 to 2 weeks to allow proper healing.
- Keep the area clean and dry, and take warm sitz baths if recommended by your doctor to relieve discomfort.
- Eat a high-fiber diet and stay well hydrated to prevent constipation and facilitate bowel movements.
Most patients can resume daily activities within a week, although they should avoid activities that may put pressure on the area until medical clearance is received.
Risks and Complications
Surgical treatment of an anal fissure is safe, but there are some associated risks, such as:
- Infection at the incision site, which may require treatment with antibiotics.
- Temporary incontinence in rare cases, due to relaxation of the sphincter muscle.
- Recurrence of the fissure, although this is less likely after surgery.
The medical team provides specific instructions to minimize these risks and ensure a smooth recovery.