Fistula

WHAT IS AN ANAL FISTULA?

Anal fistula, or fistula-in-ano, is an abnormal connection or channel like structure, between the surface of the anal canal and the exterior perianal skin. Anal fistulae originate from the anal glands, which are located between the two layers of the anal sphincters and which drain into the anal canal. If the outlet of these glands becomes blocked, an abscess can form which can eventually point to the skin surface. The tract formed by this process is the fistula.

Ancient Ayurveda surgeon, Susruta has described five types of Bhagandara(Sataponak, Ustragriwa, Parisrabi, Sambukawarta, Unmargi). They have been classified according to the vitiation of the three doshas and the shape & site of the fistula tract.

CAUSES OF FISTULA?

• Anal fistulas commonly occur due to an anal abscess.
• An abscess is a collection of pus and infected fluid. An anal abscess usually develops after a small gland, just inside the anus, becomes infected with bacteria.
• A fistula may occur if an abscess has not completely healed, or if the infected fluid has not been entirely drained away.
• A growth or ulcer (painful sore)
• A complication from surgery
• A congenital abnormality (a health problem that you were born with)

SYMPTOMS OF FISTULA

• Pain
• Discharge - either bloody or purulent
• Pruritus ani– itching around the anus
• Systemic symptoms if abscess becomes infected