Symptoms of Anal Fissure
- Severe pain during, and especially after a bowel movement, lasting from several minutes to a few hours.
- Patients often notice bright red blood from the anus that can be seen on the toilet paper or in the stool.
- A visible crack or tear in the skin around the anus.
Major Causes
- Constipation and straining during bowel movements.
- Passing large or hard stools.
- Anal intercourse.
- straining during childbirth.
Diagnosis of Anal Fissure
Anal Fissure can be diagnosed by an investigation of the symptoms and a physical exam by a proctologist. Diagnosis is made by examining the anus and anal canal. The physical exam can suggest whether further testing is needed.
Depending on the conditions, further investigations may be done through Anoscopy, Sigmoidoscopy or Colonoscopy.
Treatment for Anal Fissure available at Santhosh Hospital
At least 50 per cent of fissures heal either by themselves or with non-operative treatment, including application of special
medicated cream, use of stool softeners and avoidance of constipation.
Some fissures, if they do not respond to these methods, may require an operation. Our modality of treatment also includes Laser surgery.
What does surgery involve?
The commonest operation for this condition is lateral anal sphincterotomy. This involves cutting a portion of one of the anal muscles and helps the fissure to heal by preventing pain and spasm, and which improves the blood supply to the skin. Cutting this muscle rarely interferes with the ability to control bowel movements and can often be performed without an overnight hospital stay. Other operations, less frequently performed, include anal stretch or anoplasty.
