Risks of Anal Fistula Surgery

Quick answer: An anal fistula is defined as an abnormal connection between the anus and the skin surface. This condition typically arises as a result of an infection and is associated with anal abscesses. Anal fistulas often cause constant p If left untreated, they can severely impact the quality of life. The inner part of the fistula

Medically reviewed by Op. Dr. Yasir Gözü · General Surgery and Proctology · Last updated: July 20, 2026

An anal fistula is defined as an abnormal connection between the anus and the skin surface. This condition typically arises as a result of an infection and is associated with anal abscesses. Anal fistulas often cause constant p If left untreated, they can severely impact the quality of life. The inner part of the fistula originates from a gland inside the anal canal, and the infection creates a pathway outward. This pathway may sometimes have multiple exits by opening several small holes.

What Are the Risks of Anal Fistula Surgery?

Anal fistula surgery is a surgical procedure However, like any surgical intervention, anal fistula surgery carries various risks. These risks include infection, bleeding, and complications during the healing process. The risk of infection after surgery increases if the hygiene of the surgical area is not m Additionally, due to the anatomical structure of the area where the fistula is located, there is a possibility of damage to the surrounding tissues during surgery.

One of the most common problems patients face in the postoperative period is p Surgical interventions in the anal area can result in significant p Doctors generally recommend p However, it should be noted that in some cases, this p Furthermore, there is a risk of incontinence (fecal leakage) due to damage to the anal sphincter muscles during the removal of the fistula.

What Happens If Anal Fistula Surgery Is Not Performed?

If anal fistula surgery is not performed, the chances of the fistula healing on its own are quite low. Untreated anal fistulas can lead to more serious health issues over time. The continuous infection caused by the fistula significantly reduces the quality of life by causing chronic p The tissues around the fistula can sust

If surgery is not performed, there is also a risk of the infection around the fistula spreading. The spread of the infection can lead to the formation of new infection sites in other parts of the body. This situation can become particularly dangerous for patients with weakened immune systems. F

Is There a Non-Surgical Treatment for Anal Fistula?

There are various methods for the non-surgical treatment of anal fistula, but the effectiveness and long-term outcomes of these methods are generally more limited compared to surgical treatments. Non-surgical treatment options include dr These methods can be considered as alternatives, especially for patients who cannot tolerate surgical intervention.

The dr This method prevents the spread of the infection and provides relief to the patient. However, the dr Therefore, there is a high likelihood of the fistula recurring after the dr

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an anal fistula?

An anal fistula is an abnormal connection between the anus and the skin surface, typically arising from an infection and associated with anal abscesses. The inner part of the fistula originates from a gland inside the anal canal, and the infection creates a pathway outward. This pathway may sometimes have multiple exits through several small holes.

What are the risks of anal fistula surgery?

Like any surgical intervention, anal fistula surgery carries risks including infection, bleeding, and complications during healing. Because of the anatomical structure of the area, there is a possibility of damage to surrounding tissues during surgery. There is also a risk of incontinence (fecal leakage) if the anal sphincter muscles are damaged during removal of the fistula.

What happens if anal fistula surgery is not performed?

The chances of a fistula healing on its own are quite low, and untreated fistulas can lead to more serious health issues over time. Continuous infection significantly reduces quality of life, and there is a risk of the infection spreading and forming new infection sites elsewhere in the body. This can become particularly dangerous for patients with weakened immune systems.

Is there a non-surgical treatment for anal fistula?

There are non-surgical options, but their effectiveness and long-term outcomes are generally more limited compared to surgery. These methods can be considered as alternatives, especially for patients who cannot tolerate surgical intervention, and can prevent the spread of infection and provide relief. However, there is a high likelihood of the fistula recurring after such treatment.

Why does infection risk increase after fistula surgery?

The risk of infection after surgery increases if the hygiene of the surgical area is not maintained. Postoperative pain is also one of the most common problems patients face after surgical interventions in the anal area.

Sources

• NHS - Anal fistula
• American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons (ASCRS) - fascrs.org

This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace a professional medical consultation. For diagnosis and personalized treatment, please book an appointment.