Anal fistula treatment in Dubai

The diagnosis of an anal fistula is usually made through a combination of clinical examination and imaging studies. Your colorectal surgeon or proctologist may perform:

• Visual inspection of the anal region to identify any external openings
• Digital rectal examination to assess the fistula tract and detect any internal openings
• Anoscopy to examine the anal canal
• Endoanal ultrasound or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) to define the course of the fistula and identify any associated abscesses or secondary tracts. MRI is often the most accurate investigation for mapping complex fistulas and planning treatment

FiLaC laser treatment of anal fistula from AED 17,000. Anoscopy AED 200. The final price is confirmed in writing after the consultation and depends on the type and course of the fistula.

The choice of treatment depends on the location and complexity of the fistula, particularly its relationship to the anal sphincter muscles. The primary goal is to eliminate the fistula while preserving continence. Procedures are usually performed under general or spinal anesthesia.

• Fistulotomy

Fistulotomy is the most commonly performed procedure for simple fistulas. The fistula tract is opened along its entire length, allowing it to heal from the inside out. This technique has a high success rate but is generally suitable only when minimal sphincter muscle is involved.

• Fistulectomy

Fistulectomy involves complete surgical excision of the fistula tract. This may be recommended in selected cases but can result in a larger wound and longer healing time compared with fistulotomy.

• Seton Placement

For complex fistulas involving a significant portion of the sphincter muscle, a seton (a thin surgical thread or drain) may be placed through the fistula tract. The seton helps drain infection, promotes healing, and may be used as a staged treatment before definitive surgery. In some cases, it is left in place long-term to control symptoms while minimizing the risk of incontinence.

• FiLaC – Fistula Laser Closure

FiLaC® is a minimally invasive sphincter-preserving technique used for selected anal fistulas. After preparation of the fistula tract, a flexible radial laser probe is inserted into the fistula. Laser energy is then delivered in a controlled manner while the probe is slowly withdrawn, causing the tract to collapse and seal from the inside. The procedure avoids extensive cutting of tissue and aims to preserve the sphincter muscles. The treatment is associated with less postoperative pain and a faster recovery compared with conventional surgery in appropriately selected patients.

Benefits of FiLaC:

• Minimally invasive procedure
• Maximum preservation of the anal sphincter muscles
• Reduced risk of postoperative incontinence
• Can be combined with seton drainage or other fistula treatments when required
• Usually associated with less pain and faster return to normal activities

In Brief

The treatment of anal fistula is individualized according to the fistula anatomy and patient factors. Most common treatment options include fistulotomy, fistulectomy, seton placement, FiLaC® laser therapy, or a combination of these techniques. The aim of treatment is to eradicate the fistula, prevent recurrent infection, and preserve normal bowel control whenever possible.

At ELEMENTAL this treatment is carried out by Dr. Peter Lassu, Consultant General Surgeon (vascular and laparoscopic surgery).