Anal Fissure Surgery
An anal fissure is a small tear in the lining of the anus that can cause sharp pain, burning, and bright-red bleeding during or after bowel movements. While many fissures improve with dietary changes, medicines, and other non-surgical treatments, persistent or recurrent fissures may require a surgical procedure.
When Is Anal Fissure Surgery Recommended?
Anal fissure surgery may be considered when symptoms continue despite appropriate conservative treatment or when a fissure becomes chronic. One commonly used procedure is lateral internal sphincterotomy, which involves carefully dividing part of the internal anal sphincter to reduce muscle spasm and allow the fissure to heal.
What Does the Procedure Involve?
The procedure is generally performed under anaesthesia and may be completed as a day-care surgery. Depending on the patient's condition, a surgeon may also consider alternatives such as Botox injection or other procedures. The appropriate treatment depends on factors such as fissure severity, previous treatments, sphincter function, and overall health.
Recovery and Aftercare
Following surgery, patients are generally advised to keep stools soft through adequate fluids and a high-fibre diet, follow prescribed medicines, and avoid strenuous activity during the initial recovery period. Many patients can return to normal activities within a few days, depending on their recovery and the nature of their work.