FISSURE-IN-ANO
An anal fissure is a small tear or cut in the lining of the anus. Anal fissures are more common in women than in men, and they can occur at any age.
Causes
- Caused by a variety of factors
- Straining during bowel movements
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Childbirth
- Trauma
Symptoms
The symptoms of a fissure in ano can vary from person to person, but some common signs and symptoms may include:
- Pain during and after bowel movements
- Rectal bleeding
- Itching or burning around the anus
- A visible tear or crack in the skin around the anus
- Muscle spasms in the anus
- Difficulty passing stool
Diagnosis
Your symptoms and medical history normally gives the idea of the fissure in ano. May also perform a physical examination of the anal area to look for signs of a fissure or other conditions that may be causing your symptoms.
Anoscopy is required sometimes to get a closer look at the anal canal and identify any tears or other issues.
In some cases, additional tests may be necessary to rule out other conditions or to get a more detailed view of the anal area. These tests may include:
1. Sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy: These tests use a flexible tube with a camera to examine the rectum and colon and look for other potential causes of your symptoms.
2. Anal manometry: This test measures the pressure in the anal sphincter muscles and can help diagnose conditions that may be causing your symptoms.
3. Anorectal ultrasound: This test uses sound waves to create images of the anal area and can help identify the location and severity of a fissure.
Treatment
The best treatment for a fissure in ano depends on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause of the fissure. In many cases, a combination of lifestyle changes, self-care measures, and medical treatments can be effective in relieving symptoms and promoting healing. Here are some common treatments for fissure in ano:
1. Increase fiber intake: Eating a diet rich in fiber can help soften stools and make bowel movements easier and less painful.
2. Drink plenty of fluids: Drinking enough water and other fluids can also help soften stools and prevent constipation.
3. Use over-the-counter topical creams or ointments: Applying topical creams or ointments that contain anesthetics, steroids, or other medications can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
4. Take sitz baths: Sitting in a warm bath for 10-15 minutes several times a day can help relax the muscles around the anus and promote healing.
5. Muscle relaxants: Certain medications can help relax the muscles around the anus, which can reduce pain and promote healing.
6. Botox injections: In some cases, injecting botulinum toxin (Botox) into the anal sphincter muscles can help relax the muscles and promote healing.
7. Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the fissure or remove scar tissue that is preventing healing.
Common surgical procedures used for fissure in ano:
- Lateral internal sphincterotomy: This procedure involves cutting a small portion of the internal anal sphincter muscle to help relieve pressure and allow the fissure to heal. This is done by LASER now a days.
- Anal advancement flap: This procedure involves moving healthy tissue from the rectum to the site of the fissure to promote healing and reduce pain.
- Anal fissurectomy: This procedure involves removing the fissure and any scar tissue that may be preventing healing.
- Laser surgery: In some cases, laser surgery may be used to remove scar tissue and promote healing.
How is laser surgery better than conventional surgery?
Laser surgery or laser therapy is a day-care procedure that offers several advantages over traditional surgery. Compared to banding surgery, laser effectively treats hemorrhoids, improves symptoms and reduces post-operative pain. Similar benefits are seen for patients with severe anal spasms, external thrombosis, fissure, and sentinel tags, fistula & varicose veins due to ever-growing advantages, namely:
- Less operation time, discharge within a few hours
- Back to routine life in 3-5 days
- Greater surgical precision
- Sutureless treatment with no scars
- Fastest recovery as there are
- No cuts or stitches
- Quick relief from the symptoms
- Less blood loss during surgery
- No or minimal post-operative pain
- Reduced risk of infection
- Reduced risk of rectal stenosis or prolapse
- Aesthetically the best procedures – helps as a confidence-booster for the patient.
- The anal sphincter action is well preserved, (no chances of incontinence fecal leak).
- Least recurrence rates
- Fewer doctor visits post-surgery
- High success rates
- No need for general anesthesia. Local or spinal anesthesia is applicable for this surgery
Prevention
Getting plenty of fiber in your diet — especially from fruits and vegetables — can help prevent constipation.
Stay hydrated. That can help you prevent constipation
Exercise. One of the most common causes of constipation is a lack of physical activity. Don’t ignore your urge to go
Practice healthy bowel habits. These tips can help lessen constipation and strain on the anal canal. Check these habits regularly to lower your risk of getting a painful anal fissure:
● When using the bathroom, give yourself enough time to pass bowel movements comfortably. But don’t sit on the toilet too long.
● Don’t strain while passing stools.
● Keep the anal area dry.
● Gently clean yourself after each bowel movement.
● Use soft, dye-free, and scent-free toilet paper or wipes.
● Get treatment for ongoing diarrhea.
Have Questions? Get in touch!
Adjoining More Supermarket,
Jalandhar 144022