Fistula
What is Fistula?
Anal Fistula is an abnormal passage (communication) between the interior of the anal canal (or rectum) and the outer skin surface around the anus i.e - One Opening of the fistula (Internal opening) is inside the anus (or rectum) and another opening (External opening) is on skin surface around the anus. A tube like structure ( Fistula track) connect them.
Symptoms of Fistula?
- Persistant seropurulent (sticky) discharge of pus and/or stool from the external opening of the fistula
- Irritation of skin
- Itching
- Pain
- Flatus (gas) escape from external opening
What are Causes of Fistula?
- Abscess
- Tuberculosis (T.B)
- Cancer
- IBS (Inflamatory bowel Syndrome)
- Ulcerative colitis
- Crohn's disease
Diagnosis
- Fistula Probing
- Fistulogram
- MRI
- Endorectal ultra sonography
Types of Fistula
- Low anal (75%)
- High anal (8%)
- Subcutaneous(5%)
- Ano- rectal (7%)
- Ano- rectal (7%)