Signs & Symptoms
Recognize the early signs that indicate you may need medical attention
Persistent Discharge
Foul-smelling pus, blood, or stool-like discharge from a hole near the anus.
Pain & Swelling
Constant throbbing pain around the anus that worsens when sitting or during bowel movements.
Fever
Fever, chills, and general fatigue if there is active infection or abscess formation.
Skin Irritation
Redness, soreness, and constant irritation of the skin around the anal opening.
External Opening
A visible opening or nodule on the skin close to the anus, often with intermittent discharge.
Recurrent Abscess
Repeated abscess formation near the anus if the fistula is untreated.
Common Causes & Risk Factors
Anal Abscess
The primary cause — most fistulas develop from a previous anal abscess that did not drain or heal completely.
Crohn's Disease
This inflammatory bowel disease is strongly associated with complex, recurrent anal fistulas.
Tuberculosis (TB)
TB infection can cause granulomatous fistulas, particularly in endemic regions like parts of India.
Trauma or Surgery
Injury to the anal area or complications after anorectal surgery can result in fistula formation.
Radiation Therapy
Pelvic radiation for cancer treatment may damage tissue and lead to recto-vaginal or anal fistulas.
Treatment Options
Advanced minimally invasive techniques for better outcomes and faster recovery
MRI Fistulography
Detailed imaging to map the fistula tract accurately and plan the safest surgical approach.
FiLaC® Laser Closure
Laser energy seals the entire fistula tract without cutting sphincter muscle — sphincter preserved.
LIFT Procedure
Ligation of the Intersphincteric Fistula Tract — a sphincter-saving technique for trans-sphincteric fistulas.
Seton Placement
A surgical thread placed in the fistula to gradually drain and prepare complex tracts for definitive repair.
Benefits at Chahal Hospital
Sphincter Preserved
FiLaC® laser avoids any cutting of sphincter muscle, preserving continence completely.
Minimally Invasive
Small probe inserted into the tract — no large wounds, no stitches, less pain.
Low Recurrence
Advanced closure technique significantly reduces recurrence compared to conventional fistulotomy.
Expert Specialist
Dr. J.S. Chahal has performed hundreds of complex fistula repairs with excellent outcomes.
Rapid Recovery
Most patients return to normal activities within 5–7 days of the procedure.
Modern Facilities
Dedicated operation theatre with the latest laser and endoscopic equipment.
Your Specialist
Dr. J.S. Chahal
Senior Consultant – General & Laparoscopic Surgery
MBBS, MS (General Surgery), FALS
Book AppointmentFrequently Asked Questions
Very rarely. Unlike anal fissures, fistulas have an epithelised tract that does not heal spontaneously. Surgery is almost always needed to achieve a cure.
FiLaC (Fistula-tract Laser Closure) uses a radially emitting laser probe inserted into the fistula tract to seal it from inside with heat energy, without cutting any muscle.
With sphincter-preserving techniques like FiLaC or LIFT, the risk of incontinence is extremely low. Traditional fistulotomy for high fistulas carries a higher risk, which is why we prefer laser approaches.
Most fistulas are treated in a single surgical session. Complex or recurrent fistulas may require staged procedures.
Yes, most health insurance policies cover anal fistula treatment. Our team will help you with the documentation and pre-authorisation process.
Ready to Get Treatment?
Consult our expert specialists for Anal Fistula Treatment. Advanced, minimally invasive care with faster recovery and lasting results.