Struggling with recurring pain or discharge near the anus? It could be an anal fistula, which is an abnormal tunnel that forms between the anal canal and the skin near the anus, typically emerging after an infection or abscess. It’s more common in men. Global prevalence is about 8–23 per 100,000 people annually (0.8–2.3 per 10,000); for India, estimates are similar, around 2 per 10,000 per year.
The good news? Success rates for fistula surgery: fistulotomy achieves healing in roughly 75–95% of cases, while minimally invasive sphincter-sparing techniques generally report 85–95% success, depending on the specific procedure and fistula type.
Laser-based techniques like FiLaC are minimally invasive and useful for sphincter-sparing goals. They offer good outcomes for complex fistulas, though healing rates can be slightly lower than traditional fistulotomy in some studies. Always consult your surgeon to understand if it suits your condition.
Fistula treatment in Kolkata typically ranges between Rs. 55,000 and Rs. 80,000. Costs vary by procedure, hospital facilities and the surgeon’s expertise:
| Type of Surgery | What it is | Estimated Cost |
| Laser Surgery | Laser fistula surgery uses laser energy to close the abnormal tract, sealing it from the inside. It is quick, minimally invasive, and ensures faster healing. | Rs. 55,000 – 65,000 |
| Flap Surgery | Flap surgery removes the fistula’s internal opening and covers it with a tissue flap, helping close the tract while preserving muscle function. | Rs. 55,000 – 65,000 |
| LIFT | LIFT surgery treats complex fistulas by accessing the tract between muscles, removing infected tissue, and closing the internal opening without cutting sphincter muscles. | Rs. 60,000 – 70,000 |
| VAAFT | VAAFT uses a fistuloscope to locate and burn the fistula tract from inside, followed by cleaning and sealing the internal opening to promote healing. | Rs. 65,000 – 80,000 |
Non-surgical treatments—such as seton placement, fibrin glue, or plugs—can manage fistula, especially in select cases, but often have lower long-term success. Ayurvedic remedies may offer symptomatic relief, but lack strong clinical evidence for curing fistulas. However, these may not be permanent solutions, and expert advice is essential for proper treatment.
In most cases, a fistula can only be completely cured through surgery. Procedures like fistulotomy allow proper drainage and healing from the inside out. Non-surgical methods may manage symptoms but often fail to provide a lasting cure.
Some pain and discomfort are common after fistula surgery, especially during the first few days. Pain relief medications are usually prescribed. Using them before bowel movements can ease discomfort. Recovery improves gradually with proper care and hygiene.