The World Health Organization reports between 50,000-100,000 women suffer from an obstetric fistula every year. The half a million Americans who have Crohn’s disease are also susceptible to fistulas. Despite so many people being affected by fistulas every year, not many people know about them or how they are treated.
A fistula is a pathway that has formed between two organs or vessels that do not usually connect. The most common types of fistula are:
Symptoms of a fistula include:
If left untreated, fistulas can lead to infections and other serious complications. Some fistulas can be treated with antibiotics or other medication. If a fistula does not respond to medication, or if it is severe enough to deem an emergency, surgery is required for treatment.
Fistula surgery is done under general anesthesia. You will need transportation arrangements to and from the surgery facility. There are several surgical approaches to repair a fistula, these include:
The fistula surgery you have will depend on the cause of your fistula, such as labor and delivery or Crohn’s. Fistula surgery will be recommended by your doctor based on the location and severity of your fistula.
Typically, you can go home the same day as fistula surgery. Most people return to work 1-2 weeks after surgery. The wound from the fistula or incision site usually heals in 4-6 weeks but may take up to 9 weeks to fully heal.
Most fistula surgeries today are performed through minimally invasive laparoscopic techniques which use small incisions and slender instruments. Minimally invasive approaches result in faster recovery times, however there are still precautions that need to be taken. After fistula surgery, you may need to use a urinary catheter for a short period of time to ensure proper bladder function. Your doctor may also prescribe stool softeners after surgery. Bowel movements after fistula surgery may be difficult or painful, and a stool softener can make the passage of stool easier. Your doctor will work with you to create a recovery plan unique to your surgery and healing.
Preventing fistulas is the best form of treatment. Maintaining a healthy diet promotes healthy tissue and helps ward off fistulas. Avoiding smoking can also promote healthy tissue and aid in fistula healing.
When searching for a fistula surgeon near you, make sure the doctor is board-certified and specializes in the area of concern. Doctors who specialize in minimally invasive surgery techniques will be able to provide you with treatment options that require smaller incisions and shorter recovery times.
If you are experiencing any symptoms of a fistula, it is important to schedule an appointment with a doctor. If left untreated, fistulas can result in infections and other serious complications. Fistulas are treatable, typically do not require an overnight stay at a hospital, and the recurrence rate is generally low. Don’t suffer with the painful and unpleasant symptoms of a fistula any longer. Schedule an appointment with a doctor today.
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