A colorectal fistula is an opening in the digestive system that allows matter from the gastrointestinal tract to leak into the body or onto the skin. Common causes may include difficult childbirth, trauma due to abuse or as the result of an abscess. The most common treatment option for serious fistulas is surgery. Non threatening fistulas may be treated with antibiotics.
Examination
The first step in treating a fistula is determining the severity of the condition. Factors that an examining physician may want to look at include the size of the fistula, the location, and if the condition is exacerbating the patient's overall health by leaking fecal matter into the body or onto the skin. Once the attending physician has determined the extent of the condition's severity, they can make recommendations to correct the issue.
Surgical Options
The surgical removal of a fistula is known as a Fistulotomy. During this procedure, the fistula may be opened and drained and the infected tissue is removed, allowing the remaining tissue to close and heal naturally. Small fistulas may be removed in a doctor's office. Larger ones may require a hospital.
Nonsurgical Options
For patients in whom surgery poses a significant risk, or for less serious fistulas, the preferred method of treatment may include nonsurgical options. Anal fissures or other fistulas that open to the body's surface must be kept clean and dry. Antibiotics and medicated creams may be used to control infection, and stool softeners may be taken to reduce the pain associated with voiding fecal matter.
Fistulas and Crohn's Disease
The presence of a fistula may be an indicator that the patient has developed Crohn's disease. If this is the case then the chances increase that the fistula may re-occur. A physician will usually screen the patient for the disease to rule it out. If the determination is made that the patient does have Crohn's disease, the treatment for the fistula will include some component of lifestyle change to keep Crohn's symptoms in remission and prevent a recurrence of fistulas.
Follow Up
Once the treatment has been administered, the patient may be required to return to their physician for periodic screenings to rule out underlying problems. The recovery period after treatment of a fistula is relatively short, with pain and discomfort receding after a few days.
