Anal Fistula Treatment in Plainville, CT

At Connecticut Colon & Rectal Surgery, LLC in Plainville, CT, our board-certified colon-rectal surgeons provide specialized care for anal fistulas, a condition that can cause discomfort and require expert treatment. An anal fistula is an abnormal tunnel that forms between the anal canal and the skin near the anus, often as a result of an untreated or recurring abscess.

Call (860) 854-3505 to schedule a consultation at our colon-rectal surgery clinic in Plainville, CT.

Causes of Anal Fistulas

Anal fistulas can develop from various underlying conditions, including:

  • Inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
  • Localized skin infections, trauma, or prior radiation therapy
  • Rectal or anal cancer
  • Infections caused by sexually transmitted diseases

Symptoms of Anal Fistulas

Common symptoms include persistent drainage of pus or fluid, irritation or swelling near the anus, and recurring abscesses. Discomfort during bowel movements and redness around the area are also frequent complaints. Because these symptoms may overlap with other anorectal conditions, an accurate diagnosis from a colon-rectal surgeon is essential.

Treatment Options for Anal Fistulas

The treatment approach aims to eliminate the fistula, prevent recurrence, and preserve sphincter muscle function to maintain bowel control. Depending on the severity and complexity of the fistula, treatments may include:

  • Fistulotomy: A procedure to open the fistula tract and allow it to heal from the inside out. This is typically used for shallow fistulas with minimal muscle involvement.
  • Seton Placement: For more complex fistulas, a seton (drainage tube) may be placed to help drain infection and allow the area to heal. Follow-up procedures are often performed to close the tract.
  • Advanced Surgical Techniques: For fistulas involving significant portions of the sphincter muscle, specialized surgeries such as advancement flaps are used to treat the fistula while preserving muscle function.

In some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed alongside surgical treatment for patients with certain conditions, such as immune deficiencies or widespread cellulitis.

Schedule an Anal Fistula Consultation in Plainville, CT

If you are experiencing symptoms of an anal fistula, the team at Connecticut Colon & Rectal Surgery, LLC can provide expert care to help you find relief. Call us today at (860)-854-3505 or request an appointment online to schedule your consultation at our colon and rectal surgery clinic in Plainville, CT.