Anorectal Disorders – Fissure, Fistula, Hemorrhoids, Pilonidal Sinus & Abscess

Anorectal disorders affect the anus, rectum and surrounding tissues and can cause pain, bleeding, swelling, itching, discharge and difficulty with bowel movements. Common conditions include anal fissure, anal fistula, hemorrhoids, perianal abscess and pilonidal sinus.

Dr. Shaunak Saha provides evaluation and treatment planning for patients experiencing anorectal symptoms. A detailed clinical assessment helps identify the underlying condition and determine whether conservative treatment, medication, drainage, minimally invasive treatment or surgery is appropriate.

An anal fissure is a small tear in the anal lining and can cause sharp pain and bright-red bleeding during or after bowel movements. Many fissures improve with conservative treatment, while persistent or recurrent cases may require a procedure.

An anal fistula is an abnormal tunnel between the anal canal and nearby skin, often developing after an anal abscess. Fistulas generally do not heal on their own and may require surgical treatment. The choice of procedure depends on the fistula's location and relationship to the anal sphincter muscles.

Treatment for anorectal conditions is planned according to the diagnosis, severity, symptoms and individual patient factors, with attention to preserving normal bowel function wherever possible.

SPECIFICATIONS

Conditions: Anal fissure, anal fistula, hemorrhoids and perianal abscess

Additional condition: Pilonidal sinus

Assessment: Clinical anorectal examination

Investigations: Proctoscopy, ultrasound, MRI or other tests when clinically indicated

Treatment options: Medical, conservative, minimally invasive or surgical

Fistula treatment: Fistulotomy, seton or other appropriate procedures depending on anatomy

Fissure treatment: Medical management and procedures for persistent or recurrent disease

Abscess treatment: Drainage when clinically required

Hemorrhoid treatment: Non-surgical, minimally invasive or surgical treatment according to severity

Treatment planning: Individualised colorectal assessment

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: What are common anorectal disorders?

A: Common conditions include anal fissure, anal fistula, hemorrhoids, perianal abscess and pilonidal disease.

Q: What is the difference between a fissure and a fistula?

A: An anal fissure is a tear in the anal lining, while an anal fistula is an abnormal tunnel connecting the anal canal with the surrounding skin.

Q: Does an anal fistula require surgery?

A: Most anal fistulas do require a surgical procedure because they usually do not heal on their own. The appropriate procedure depends on the fistula's location and whether it involves the anal sphincter muscles.

Q: What are symptoms of an anal abscess?

A: An anal abscess can cause painful swelling, redness and sometimes fever. It may require prompt medical assessment and drainage.

Q: Can anal fissures be treated without surgery?

A: Yes. Many anal fissures improve with measures such as keeping stools soft, dietary fibre, fluids and appropriate medical treatment. Persistent or recurrent fissures may require a procedure.

Q: When should I see a colorectal surgeon?

A: Persistent anal pain, recurrent swelling, discharge, bleeding, a suspected fistula or symptoms that do not improve with initial treatment should be evaluated by a qualified doctor.

Don't ignore persistent anal pain, bleeding, swelling or discharge. Consult Dr. Shaunak Saha for an accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment plan for anorectal conditions.