Immediate treatment for anal fissures is essential as it could become a chronic condition. You can avail the best-in-class treatment for anal fissures at Lakshya Healthcare, as we are equipped with cutting-edge laser surgery, anorectal specialists, and medical care coordinators at no-cost EMIs.
An anal fissure is a small tear in the lining of the anal canal. It can cause discomfort, pain, and bleeding during bowel movements.
There are two types of anal fissures: acute anal fissure and chronic anal fissure.
Acute Anal fissures are typically caused by trauma to the anal canal, such as passing a large bowel movement. It can be treated with some ointments, medications, and home remedies within a few weeks.
Chronic Anal fissures are tears that persist for more than six weeks. They are often associated with underlying conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease or sexually transmitted infections. Chronic fissures are better treated with surgery.
Treatment options for anal fissures include dietary changes, topical medications, and surgery i.e. lateral internal sphincterotomy (LIS) in severe cases.
To diagnose an anal fissure, your doctor will typically begin by asking you about your symptoms and medical history. They may also perform a physical examination to check for any visible signs of a fissure, such as a small tear or crack in the skin around the anus.
In some cases, your doctor may need to perform a more detailed examination, such as an anoscopy, to get a closer look at the affected area.
During an anoscopy, a small, flexible tube with a camera on the end is inserted into the rectum to allow the doctor to examine the anus and rectum in more detail. This is an outpatient procedure and is performed in the doctor’s clinic.
In some cases, the doctor may also recommend additional tests, such as a stool sample or blood tests, to check other possible causes of your symptoms. Once the diagnosis of the anal fissure has been confirmed, the doctor may suggest the best suitable treatment plan, which may include medications, lifestyle changes, or in severe cases, surgery.
Treatment options for anal fissures vary depending on the severity of the fissure. There are two types of treatment methods for anal fissures: surgical and non-surgical.
Non-surgical approaches include dietary changes, such as increasing fiber intake and drinking more fluids to soften stools and reduce the need to strain during bowel movements. Topical medications, such as nitroglycerin ointment, can also help relax the anal sphincter and promote healing.
In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary. Procedures such as lateral internal sphincterotomy or fissurectomy can help relieve symptoms by reducing pressure on the anal sphincter and promoting healing. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best treatment approach for individual cases.
There are two surgical methods to treat anal fissures:
Open surgery is the traditional method for treating anal fissures. The procedure involves the following steps:
You will be sedated under general anesthesia to ensure a painless experience.
The surgeon will position you for easy access to the affected area.
An incision is made around the anus to access the fissure.
The surgeon will analyze the fissure to assess its severity and check for additional complications.
Any damaged tissue around the fissure will be removed to promote healing.
The incision is sutured to close the wound.
After the procedure, you will be monitored for any complications and pain management.
Laser-assisted surgery is a modern and highly effective treatment for chronic anal fissures.
The steps involved in the procedure are:
You will be positioned on your back with your hips and knees bent.
An anesthesiologist will sedate you to numb the area or induce sleep for a painless procedure.
The surgeon will insert a laser probe through the anus.
The laser is guided to the fissure site.
Using the laser, the surgeon makes a precise cut in the sphincter muscles, relaxing them to aid healing.
After the procedure, you will be taken to a recovery room for observation.
Laser surgery is recommended for individuals where conservative treatments, such as dietary changes, stool softeners, and topical medications, have failed.
Laser anal fissure surgery offers several advantages over traditional surgical methods:
✅ Minimally Invasive: The procedure involves no major cuts or stitches, reducing trauma to surrounding tissues.
✅ Less Pain: Laser technology causes minimal discomfort compared to conventional surgery.
✅ Faster Recovery: Patients heal quicker, usually returning to normal activities within a few days.
✅ Lower Risk of Infection: The laser sterilizes the area, minimizing infection risks.
✅ Reduced Bleeding: Laser cauterization seals blood vessels, leading to minimal blood loss.
✅ Shorter Hospital Stay: Most procedures are performed as day-care surgeries, allowing same-day discharge.
✅ Minimal Scarring: Laser treatment leaves little to no visible scars compared to open surgery.
✅ Lower Risk of Recurrence: The precision of the laser helps in effective healing, reducing the chances of recurrence.
Laser surgery is a safe and efficient option for chronic anal fissure treatment. Consult a specialist to determine if it’s the right choice for you.
Being well-prepared for surgery ensures a smoother procedure and recovery. Follow these essential tips:
Follow Your Surgeon’s Instructions: Carefully adhere to the guidelines provided to minimize risks and complications.
Quit Smoking: Smoking slows healing and increases the risk of complications. Stop at least two weeks before surgery.
Avoid Blood-Thinning Medications: Medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, and warfarin can increase bleeding. Consult your doctor about which medications to stop.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your bowels regular and prevent constipation.
Maintain a Balanced Diet: A fiber-rich diet helps prevent constipation and supports recovery.
Prepare Your Home: Arrange essentials in advance to ensure a comfortable recovery period.
Proper preparation can make a significant difference in your healing process.
Recovery time varies based on the treatment type—non-surgical methods take longer compared to laser surgery.
Medications: Healing can take 4 to 8 weeks, depending on age, health, and severity. Medication alone may not be enough; consult a proctologist for the best treatment.
Home Remedies: Healing may take a few days to weeks. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical attention.
Open Surgery: Recovery takes around 4 to 6 weeks. Following post-operative care is essential for faster healing.
Laser Surgery: Complete recovery takes 1-2 weeks, but normal activities can resume within a week. This is the fastest and most effective treatment option.
Take prescribed pain medication.
Avoid strenuous activities for a week.
Keep the surgical area clean and dry.
Eat a fiber-rich diet to prevent constipation.
Drink plenty of water to soften stools.
Use sitz baths for relief and healing.
Avoid prolonged sitting, especially on hard surfaces.
Follow wound care instructions and attend follow-up appointments.
Like any surgical procedure, anal fissure surgery carries certain risks and complications, including:
Infection: Proper hygiene and post-operative care help minimize the risk.
Bleeding: Common after surgery; avoiding blood-thinning medications reduces the risk.
Pain: Temporary discomfort can be managed with prescribed pain medications.
Incontinence: Rare but may cause loss of bowel control.
Anal Stenosis: Narrowing of the anus, making bowel movements difficult.
Abscess Formation: Infections may lead to abscesses requiring further treatment.
Allergic Reactions: Some patients may react to anesthesia or medications.
Nerve Damage: In rare cases, surgery may cause numbness or tingling in the anal area.
Recurrence: Although effective, fissures may return, requiring further treatment.
As treatment progresses, the following signs indicate recovery:
Less Pain: Reduced or minimal pain during bowel movements.
Decreased Bleeding: Less or no blood during stool passage.
Less Itching & Irritation: Reduced discomfort in the anal area.
Fissure Healing: The tear appears smaller or is closing.
Improved Comfort: Less pain while sitting or standing for long periods.
Easier Bowel Movements: Passing stool without straining or pain.
Better Digestion: Regular bowel movements without discomfort.
Increased Energy Levels: Improved overall well-being.
Enhanced Confidence: Feeling comfortable in daily activities.
How Can I Treat Anal Fissures at Home?
You can manage mild anal fissures at home with these remedies:
Sitz Baths: Soaking in warm water for 15–20 minutes helps relax anal muscles and reduce irritation.
Stool Softeners: Over-the-counter stool softeners prevent straining during bowel movements.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water to keep stools soft.
Fiber Intake: Increase dietary fiber (fruits, vegetables, whole grains) or take fiber supplements to ease bowel movements.
Which Are the Best Ointments/Creams for Anal Fissures?
Some commonly recommended ointments include:
Nitroglycerin Ointment (relaxes the anal sphincter and promotes healing).
Lidocaine Cream (provides pain relief).
Calcium Channel Blockers (e.g., diltiazem or nifedipine ointment, which help relax muscles).
Hydrocortisone Cream (reduces inflammation and itching).
Note: Consult a doctor before using any medication.
When Should I Consult a Doctor for Anal Fissure Treatment?
Seek medical attention if:
The fissure doesn’t heal within 6 weeks.
There is severe pain or persistent bleeding.
You experience recurring fissures.
Symptoms worsen despite home remedies.
What Is the Best Treatment for Anal Fissures?
Treatment depends on severity:
Mild Cases: Sitz baths, fiber-rich diet, stool softeners, and ointments.
Chronic Cases: Medications like nitroglycerin or calcium channel blockers.
Severe Cases: Surgery (Lateral Internal Sphincterotomy or Laser Surgery) for long-term relief.
What Are the Risks of Anal Fissure Surgery?
Infection: Proper post-op care reduces the risk.
Bleeding: Minor bleeding may occur but usually subsides.
Pain: Temporary discomfort after surgery.
Incontinence (Rare): Inability to control bowel movements in rare cases.
Recurrence: Fissures may reappear if preventive care is not followed.
How Do I Find the Best Fissure Doctor Near Me?
Search online for “best proctologist near me” or “anal fissure specialist near me.”
Look for board-certified general surgeons or proctologists.
Check reviews, ratings, and hospital affiliations.
Ask for referrals from friends or family.
Schedule a consultation to discuss your condition and treatment options.
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