The use of laser technology for fistula, particularly for anal fistula, is becoming common and there are many reasons behind the same. The surgery is effective, minimally invasive, and has a quick recovery time. When you experience the symptoms of this condition, it is advisable to reach out to the doctor. After diagnosing a fistula, they will understand its severity, and if the condition is treatable by laser surgery, they will prepare you for the same.
Laser technology helps destroy the tissues in the fistula, and then the laser probe is pulled back, closing the tract. The procedure is quick and causes minimal damage to the healthy tissues. Compared to other treatment options for fistula, laser therapy offers a shorter recovery time and increased comfort for patients.
What Happens Before Laser Surgery for Fistula?
Before the surgery, the surgeon carries out a thorough evaluation to determine the appropriate surgical technique suitable for your body and needs. As anal fistulas do not heal on their own, surgery becomes the sought-after treatment option. The choice of surgery is based on factors, such as the location of the fistula, whether it is branching out in multiple directions, and more.
What Happens During Laser Surgery for Fistula?
Unlike invasive surgeries to treat fistula, laser surgery doesn’t take a lot of time. During the procedure, you are first placed under anaesthesia. The surgeon then inserts a small probe into the fistula tract, guided by an endoscope or other imaging techniques.
The laser energy is delivered through the probe, targeting and destroying the tissues along with the fistula tract. It effectively seals off the fistula tract by creating controlled thermal energy. It takes around 30-60 minutes for the procedure to complete. Afterward, you can resume your regular activities and follow the after-care instructions delivered by your doctor.
What are the Benefits of Laser Fistula Surgery?
Minimally Invasive
Laser surgery is a minimally invasive approach to treat fistula. It utilises a high-intensity, medical-grade laser to make small incisions and destroy the fistula tract. The high operating temperature of the laser ensures minimal risk of infection and bleeding.
Shorter Recovery Period
As laser surgery is a minimally invasive approach to treat fistula, the recovery time is significantly shorter when compared to conventional methods. In many cases, recovery after anal fistula lasts for 2-6 weeks. Having said that, many patients may return to their normal lives and routines in about 2-3 days.
Minimal Risk of Complications
Laser surgery for fistula involves making small incisions when compared to traditional surgery. As a result, the chances of complications such as excessive bleeding or infections from these incisions are very minimal.
Preservation of Surrounding Tissues
A laser anal fistula surgery is a precise procedure that involves making incisions that are small in size. The small incisions ensure maximum preservation of the tissues surrounding the fistula. As a result, it not only saves the nearby tissues from damage but also results in a negligible chance of complications, shorter recovery time, and better cosmetic results.
Outpatient Surgery
A laser fistula surgery is an outpatient procedure that doesn’t take more than 60 minutes to complete. Once the surgery has taken place and there are no immediate complications, you may be allowed to go home on the same day of the surgery. It cuts your hospital stay as well as the expenses related to the same.
What to Expect after Laser Fistula Surgery?
As stated, laser fistula surgery doesn’t take much time to complete. This outpatient surgery doesn’t involve any major complications. Once the procedure is complete, the doctor will allow you to go home on the same day. Immediately after the surgery, you will be moved to the recovery area, and the medical team will keep you under observation. On account of any complications, your doctor will address them promptly.
You may experience side effects, such as minor bleeding, bruising, and swelling –all of which are very normal. These symptoms are not indicative of any major complications and do not require medical assistance as they subside on their own. To ensure the recovery is smooth, your surgeon will schedule post-operative follow-ups. Do not miss these follow-ups as they pose importance in quick recovery.
- The urologist will examine the surgical site to ensure there aren’t signs of complications
- The surgeon will ask questions about the recovery.
- The medical team will inquire if you are experiencing difficulty or discomfort after the surgery.
- The surgeon will check if there are any symptoms from your old condition.
- If required, you will be given some instructions on diet and lifestyle.
Takeaway
Fistula is a common problem, and laser surgery is a sought-after solution for the same. Contact your doctor after experiencing any symptoms of this condition, and they shall address it in the best possible treatment option.
