Anal Fistula Surgery (Sphincter-Preserving) in Lucknow
An anal fistula needs surgery to heal — but the operation must be done carefully, because the fistula passes near the muscles that control continence. Modern surgery aims to cure the fistula while protecting those muscles, using sphincter-preserving techniques rather than the cutting operations of the past.
Dr Sandeep Kumar Verma performs anal fistula surgery in Lucknow at Medanta, choosing the technique that best balances cure and continence for each patient.
Why technique matters in fistula surgery
The challenge of fistula surgery is curing the tract while preserving the anal sphincter. The right operation depends on how the fistula relates to the muscle, which is why accurate mapping — often with an MRI — comes first. Choosing and performing the correct technique is what protects continence.
Sphincter-preserving options
Dr Verma selects the approach that offers the best chance of cure with the lowest risk to continence for your particular fistula.
- LIFT procedure — ligates the tract while sparing the muscle
- Laser closure (FiLaC) — precise, minimally invasive sealing of the tract
- Seton — a staged approach for complex fistulas, protecting the sphincter
- Laying open only for simple, low fistulas where it is safe
Recovery and complex fistulas
Most fistula procedures are day-care or short-stay, with dietary and wound-care guidance afterwards. Complex or recurrent fistulas — including those related to Crohn's disease — may need a staged approach over more than one procedure, planned carefully to maximise the chance of lasting cure.
Your treatment pathway
- 1
Mapping with MRI
An MRI accurately maps the fistula tract before surgery.
- 2
Choosing the technique
A sphincter-preserving technique suited to your fistula.
- 3
Fistula surgery
A day-care or short-stay, continence-protecting procedure.
- 4
Recovery & follow-up
Wound care, dietary guidance and review to confirm healing.
Anal Fistula Surgery: common questions
Will fistula surgery affect my continence?
Protecting continence is the central goal. Modern sphincter-preserving techniques — chosen after mapping the fistula, often with MRI — allow most fistulas to be cured with a very low risk to continence. The correct choice of operation, in experienced hands, is what makes the difference.
Why might I need more than one operation for a fistula?
Complex or recurrent fistulas, including those linked to Crohn's disease, are sometimes best treated in stages to protect the sphincter and give the best chance of lasting cure. A seton may be used first, followed by a definitive procedure. This careful, staged approach prioritises both cure and function.
Considering anal fistula surgery?
Book a consultation with Dr Sandeep Kumar Verma for a clear assessment and a treatment plan tailored to you.