FISSURE TREATMENT

What are the Anal Fissures ?

It is basically a cut or tearing in the anus part of the body that comes out upwards into the anal canal. Fissures are common situations of the anus and anal canal and are responsible for 6% to 15% of the visits to a colon and rectal (colorectal) surgeon. It can be found in Men, Women,Young and Old ones. Fissures is the most painful situation in the bowel movement that often is severe. Anal fissure is the most common cause of rectal bleeding.

Anal Fissures occurs in the specialized tissue that covers that lines the anus and anal canal  which is called anoderm. A line just inside the anus the skin of the inner buttocks changes to anoderm. Less likely to skin, anoderm has no hairs, sweat glands, or sebaceous (oil) glands. It contains a large number of sensory nerves that can feel the light touch and pain. The hairless, gland-less, extremely sensitive anoderm surrounds the entire length of the anal canal until it meets the demarcating line of the rectum,called the denate line.

An anal fissures is a small tear in the thin, moist tissue (mucosa) that covers the anus. Anal fissure may occurs when you pass hard or large stools during a bowel movement. It usually causes pain and bleeding with the bowel movement. You may also some contraction in the ring of the muscle at the end of your anus.

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If you have an anal fissure, you may be referred to a doctor who specializes in digestive diseases (gastroenterologist) or a colon and rectal surgeon.

Here’s some information to help you get ready for your appointment, and what to expect from your doctor.

 Appointment

A fistula in ano is an abnormal tract or cavity with an external opening in the perianal area that is communicating with the rectum or anal canal by an identifiable internal opening.Most fistula are thought to arise as a result of cryptoglandular infection with resultant perirectal abscess.

Anal fissures often heal within a few weeks if you take steps to keep your stool soft, such as increasing your intake of fiber and fluids. Soaking in warm water for 10 to 20 minutes several times a day, especially after bowel movements, can help relax the sphincter and promote healing.

If your symptoms persist, you’ll likely need further treatment.

Nonsurgical treatments

Your doctor may recommend:

  • Externally applied nitrogylcerin, to help increase blood flow to the fissure and promote healing, and to help relax the anal sphincter. Nitroglycerin is generally considered the medical treatment of choice when other conservative measures fail. Side effects may include headache.
  • Steroid creams, to help relieve discomfort.
  • Botulin toxin type A (Botox) injection, to paralyze the anal sphincter muscle and relax spasms.
  • Blood pressure medications, which can help relax the anal sphincter. These medications may be taken by mouth or applied externally and may be used when nitroglycerin in not effective or causes significant side effects.

Surgery

If you have a chronic anal fissure that is resistant to other treatments, or if your symptoms are severe, your doctor may recommend surgery. Surgery usually involves cutting a small portion of the anal sphincter muscle to reduce spasm and pain and promote healing. Surgery has a small risk of causing incontinence.

Several lifestyle changes may help relieve discomfort and promote healing of an anal fissure, as well as prevent recurrences:

  • Add fiber to your diet. Eating about 25 to 30 grams of fiber a day can help keep stools soft and improve fissure healing. Fiber-rich foods include fruits, vegetables, nuts and whole grains. You also can take a fiber supplement. Adding fiber may cause gas and bloating, so increase your intake gradually.
  • Drink adequate fluids. Fluids help prevent constipation.
  • Exercise regularly. Engage in 30 minutes or more of moderate physical activity, such as walking, most days of the week. Exercise promotes regular bowel movements and increases blood flow to all parts of your body, which may promote healing of an anal fissure.
  • Avoid straining during bowel movements. Straining creates pressure, which can open a healing tear or cause a new tear.

If your infant has an anal fissure, be sure to change diapers frequently, wash the area gently and discuss the problem with your infant’s doctor.