Anal abscess and anal fistula
Anal abscess and anal fistula are described together because an abscess represents the acute inflammation and an anal fistula represents the chronic process.
What is an anal abscess?
An anal abscess is an infected cavity filled with pus found near the anus or rectum. Abscesses result from infection of the anal glands and ducts just inside the anus and may burst spontaneously or require surgical drainage.
What is an anal fistula?
An anal fistula is an abnormal communication between two organs or a small tunnel that connects the infected anal gland and the skin near the anus.
What causes an anal abscess?
An abscess results from an infection of the glands just inside the anus. If bacteria or foreign matter lodges in these glands an abscess may form. A large percentage of abscesses once treated disappear. However some abscesses are the result of other disease processes such as:
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Inflammatory bowel disease
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Infection
Tuberculosis
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Trauma
Impalement
Foreign body
Surgery
Childbirth -
Malignancy
What causes an anal fistula?
After an abscess has been drained, a tunnel (fistula) may persist that connects the abscess to the skin. This will continue to discharge material from the abscess.
What are the signs and symptoms of an anal abscess?
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Pain
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Anal swelling
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Redness
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Fever
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Skin irritation around the anus
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Drainage of pus which generally relieves the pain
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General malaise
What is the treatment for an anal abscess?
The treatment for an anal abscess is a surgical incision and drainage.
What is the treatment for an anal fistula?
Surgery is usually required to treat a fistula. The aim of surgery is to eliminate the fistula and prevent recurrence. The surgical procedures include:
Fistulotomy involves laying open or cutting along the length of the fistula (tunnel or tract) to the skins surface. This allows the wound to heal slowly from the base upwards.
Insertion of Seton: Seton is a small flexible tube that is inserted into the fistula, this allows for drainage of debris from the abscess. Seton stops the skin from healing and pus accumulating within the abscess.
Examination under anaesthesia. This operation is performed to check the extent of the fistula or assess the healing process.
What to expect after surgery?
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The pain experienced after the operation is mild to moderate and can be effectively treated with oral analgesia.
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Warm sitzs baths (salt baths) are recommended especially after defecation
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Stool softeners help keep the motion bulky but soft e.g. Normacol, Metamucil.
Useful Contacts and Further Information
Concord Hospital has an internationally recognised Colorectal Unit and can
be contacted on 97678360
Contact your General Practitioner
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