Advice after your nerve block for surgery
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Laser treatment for anal fistula is a modern, less painful alternative to traditional surgery. It helps seal the tunnel tract while protecting the bowel muscles. Most people recover quickly and return to normal activities within a few days.
What is an anal fistula?
An anal fistula is a small tunnel that forms under the skin near the back passage (anus). It usually starts after an infection or an abscess (a painful collection of pus). The tunnel connects the inside of the bowel to the skin near the anus. It may cause pain, swelling, discharge (pus or fluid), or irritation.
Why might I need treatment?
Anal fistula tends to create painful abscess around the anus that keep coming back. Sometimes the fistula can leak stool and pus. Some people are troubled by this, and surgery can help.
The aim of treatment is to close the tunnel and stop repeated problems.
What is laser ablation of fistula?
Laser ablation is a modern treatment that uses laser light to seal the fistula from the inside.
During the procedure:
- You will usually have a general anaesthetic (medicine that makes you sleep).
- The surgeon places a thin laser fibre into the fistula tunnel.
- The laser energy gently destroys the lining of the tunnel and closes it up.
The treatment usually takes less than 1 hour.
This method avoids cutting into the muscle that controls the bowel, which reduces the risk of problems with controlling wind or stool.
What are the benefits?
- Less pain than traditional surgery
- Smaller wound or no wound on the skin
- Faster recovery and return to normal activities
- Lower risk of bowel control problems
- Most people go home the same day
What happens after the procedure?
You will rest in hospital for a short time, then go home. You may feel some mild soreness for a few days. A small amount of discharge or bleeding may continue until healing is complete.
Most people return to work or school in a few days, depending on how they feel.
How do I care for myself afterwards?
Take paracetamol or ibuprofen if needed (unless advised not to).
Wash the area gently with warm water after going to the toilet. Pat dry – avoid rubbing.
Drink plenty of water and eat high-fibre foods (fruit, vegetables, whole grains) to avoid constipation.
Gentle walking is encouraged. Avoid heavy lifting or long sitting for the first few days if it is sore.
What are the risks?
Laser fistula treatment is safe, but possible risks include:
- Infection or bleeding
- The fistula not healing fully (sometimes further treatment is needed)
- The fistula may come back in some cases (recurrence)
- Rarely, problems with controlling wind or stool (much less common than with older surgery)
When should I seek help?
Complications after this sort of surgery are rare.
Contact your doctor or hospital if you have severe pain not helped by medicine, heavy bleeding, high temperature (fever), bad-smelling discharge or swelling that gets worse, or difficulty passing urine or stool
If you have any questions, please ask your doctor or nurse. They are here to help you.
Contact us
If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the General surgery service.
About this information
Service:
General surgery
Reference:
Y/061
Approval date:
9 January 2025
Review date:
9 January 2028
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Important note
This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.