What Are Video-Assisted Treatment Methods (VAAFT) in Anal Fistula?
What is VAAFT? Learn how video-assisted anal fistula treatment preserves sphincter muscles, speeds recovery, and lowers the risk of recurrence.
What is VAAFT? Learn how video-assisted anal fistula treatment preserves sphincter muscles, speeds recovery, and lowers the risk of recurrence.
Quick answer: What Are Video-Assisted Treatment Methods (VAAFT) in Anal Fistula? Anal fistula is a condition that significantly affects quality of life, recurs frequently, and carries a risk of complications in traditional surgeries. Thanks to modern approaches developed in recent years, especially muscle preservation and rapid recovery have become possible. One of these methods is VAAFT (Video
Medically reviewed by Op. Dr. Yasir Gözü · General Surgery and Proctology · Last updated: July 20, 2026
What Are Video-Assisted Treatment Methods (VAAFT) in Anal Fistula?
Anal fistula is a condition that significantly affects quality of life, recurs frequently, and carries a risk of complications in traditional surgeries. Thanks to modern approaches developed in recent years, especially muscle preservation and rapid recovery have become possible. One of these methods is VAAFT (Video Assisted Anal Fistula Treatment), a minimally invasive and video-assisted surgical technique for anal fistulas.
In this article, we thoroughly answer the most frequently asked questions such as what is VAAFT, how it is applied, who it is suitable for, and how it differs from classical methods.
What Is Anal Fistula?
An anal fistula is a tunnel-like structure formed by an infected abscess in the anus area leading to the skin surface. It usually develops following recurrent abscesses.
Symptoms include:
If left untreated, it may progress and lead to more complex fistula tracts.
What Is the VAAFT Method?
VAAFT, short for Video Assisted Anal Fistula Treatment, is a video-supported treatment method for anal fistulas.
Developed by German surgeon Meinero, this method allows internal visualization and treatment of the fistula using an endoscope.
Key features of VAAFT:
In these aspects, VAAFT offers a comfortable alternative especially for patients at high risk of complications.
How Is VAAFT Applied?
The VAAFT procedure is performed as follows:
The procedure takes approximately 30–60 minutes. It can be performed under local or general anesthesia.
What Are the Advantages of the VAAFT Method?
VAAFT has several advantages over classical surgery:
Sphincter muscles are preserved → No risk of gas or stool incontinence
Less p Rapid recovery → The patient quickly returns to d Lower recurrence risk → Fistula tract is directly visualized and cleaned
Aesthetic benefit → No visible external scars
With these benefits, it is an ideal option for patients seeking non-invasive fistula treatment.
Who Is It Suitable For?
VAAFT yields successful results particularly in these patient groups:
However, in very complex and branched fistulas, it may need to be combined with other techniques.
What Happens After VAAFT?
Regular medical follow-up is vital for success.
VAAFT Experience at Avrupa Cerrahi
At Avrupa Cerrahi, we successfully apply the VAAFT method for anal fistula treatment using advanced technology and our experienced surgical team.
What is the VAAFT method for anal fistula?
VAAFT, short for Video Assisted Anal Fistula Treatment, is a minimally invasive, video-supported surgical technique developed by German surgeon Meinero. It allows internal visualization and treatment of the fistula using an endoscope, with no large incisions and preservation of muscle tissue and sphincter integrity.
How is the VAAFT procedure performed?
The fistula tract is first mapped with MRI and proctological examination, then a fistuloscope is inserted to visualize the tract internally. The tunnel is cleaned and cauterized, the internal opening is closed with a mucosal flap, stitches, or tissue adhesive, and the procedure takes approximately 30-60 minutes under local or general anesthesia.
What are the advantages of VAAFT over classical fistula surgery?
Sphincter muscles are preserved so there is no risk of gas or stool incontinence, recovery is rapid, recurrence risk is lower because the tract is directly visualized and cleaned, and there are no visible external scars. This makes it an ideal option for patients seeking non-invasive fistula treatment.
Who is a good candidate for VAAFT?
VAAFT yields successful results in patients with simple or moderately complex anal fistulas, those who had classical surgery but experienced recurrence, those who want treatment without risking muscle control, and patients avoiding treatment due to fear of surgery. In very complex, branched fistulas, it may need to be combined with other techniques.
What is recovery like after VAAFT?
Pain level is low, usually 1-2 days of rest is sufficient, and bathing and dressing changes are more comfortable. Complete healing is expected within 2-3 weeks, the recurrence rate is lower than classical surgery, and regular medical follow-up is vital for success.
What happens if an anal fistula is left untreated?
An anal fistula is a tunnel-like structure formed by an infected abscess leading to the skin surface, causing constant discharge, bad odor, itching, and occasionally painful swellings. If left untreated, it may progress and lead to more complex fistula tracts.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace a professional medical consultation. For diagnosis and personalized treatment, please book an appointment.