Specialist fistula surgery using LIFT, VAAFT, and advanced flap procedures for lasting resolution.
An anal fistula is an abnormal tunnel that forms between the anal canal and the skin, usually following a previous abscess. Because fistulas rarely heal on their own and can be complex, they require specialist surgical planning to close the tract completely while protecting the sphincter muscle and continence. Dr. Krishna Pada Saha selects from LIFT, VAAFT, and flap techniques based on the fistula's exact anatomy.
Fistula anatomy varies enormously from patient to patient — some tracts are simple and superficial, others are complex, high, or branching, and involve more of the sphincter muscle. This is why Dr. Saha routinely uses MRI fistulogram or careful examination under anaesthesia to map the exact course of the tract before deciding on technique. Choosing the wrong approach for a complex fistula is the most common reason for recurrence or incontinence after fistula surgery elsewhere — accurate pre-operative mapping and technique selection are what make the real difference to outcome.
Recognising these early can help you seek timely, effective treatment.
Every patient is different — Dr. Saha recommends the safest, least invasive option that will give lasting results.
A clear, step-by-step path from consultation to full recovery.
A detailed history and clinical examination to accurately assess your condition and rule out other anorectal issues.
Based on the severity and your overall health, Dr. Saha recommends the most appropriate — and least invasive — treatment path.
The procedure is performed under local, spinal or general anaesthesia as appropriate, most often on a day-care basis.
Complex fistulas may need staged treatment and patient follow-through on wound care; simple fistulas usually heal faster with a single procedure.
MRI or examination-based mapping ensures the exact tract anatomy is known before surgery begins.
LIFT, VAAFT, fistulotomy or flap repair — chosen individually rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
Sphincter-sparing techniques are prioritised whenever the anatomy allows.
Recurrent or high fistulas that have failed treatment elsewhere are managed with a fresh, detailed assessment.
No. A fistula tract very rarely closes without a surgical procedure to lay it open or reroute it — that's why timely treatment matters.
Dr. Saha selects sphincter-sparing techniques such as LIFT or VAAFT wherever suitable, specifically to protect continence while curing the fistula.
Most patients resume normal activity in 2–3 weeks, with complete wound healing taking a little longer depending on the technique used.
Complex or high fistulas have a higher chance of recurrence; a detailed MRI-based mapping before surgery helps choose the right technique and reduce this risk.
For complex or recurrent fistulas, an MRI fistulogram is strongly recommended to map the tract accurately and choose the safest technique.
Simple, low fistulas are usually treated in a single sitting; complex or high fistulas occasionally need a staged approach (such as a seton first) for the safest outcome.
Share your symptoms with our team and get guidance on the right next step.
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