Anorectal Fistula recovery and treatment process - #31071
How to treat anorectal fistula which was occured after normal birth. The stool leaked from the hole near anus. What are the treatment options for this and how long it could take to heal. And what are the success rate of the treatment.?


Doctors’ responses
Hello. U need to Stop spicy oily heavy foods. Milk and milk products . Avoid fusión foods. Consulta an Ayurvedic surgeon for Shara sutra. Till that take Saptavinshati gugul 2 tabs 2 times a Day. Tab triphala gugul 2 tabs 2 times a Day. Have sitz both of triphala decocción + 20 ml jatyadi oíl.
Hi Seema this is Dr Vinayak as considering your problem…see maa…best of best treatment for fistula is KSHARASUTRA only… There are no of patients get cured by KSHARASUTRA no need to worry …get it done Follow the procedures what ever they tell along with internal medicine…
Hello, Please consult a ayurveda surgeon(shalya tantra specialist in your area. They will suggest you an ayurveda procedure called as khara sutra along with some internal medications. Sitting is based on death and/place where the fistula is placed. This procedure has high success rate with no/very tare recurrence (your doctor when examines will be able to tell exactly about the success rate in your case)
Take care, Kind regards.
For Anorectal Fistula, ayur recommends ksharsutra, which needs to be done at ayurvedic centre by an ayurvedic doctor. Meanwhile you can take Pilex tablet 2-2-2 after food with water Abhayarist 15ml twice daily after food with water Pilex ointment for local application. Avoid heat producing foods like eggs chicken prawns if you are non-vegetarian. Avoid spicy, food Do sitz bath twice daily with warm water and few drops of betadine/ potassium permanganate.
NO NEED TO WORRY SEEMA JI,
You’ll definitely get Amazing results 😊
NEED PERSONAL CONSULTATION. Please visit nearby ayurvedic physician(BAMS MS SHALYA) for KSHARA SUTRA.
TAKE CARE😊
Kind Regards, Dr.Isha Ashok Bhardwaj.
HELLO SEEMA JI, ANORECTAL FISTULA CAN BE CORRECTED THROUGH SURGERY ,SO I RECOMMEND TO CONSULT AYURVEDIC SURGEON [MS SHALYA] FOR THIS. IN AYURVED,THIS SURGERY IS FOLLOWED BY KSHARSUTRA APPLICATION WHICH RESTRICTS RECURRENCE OF FISTULA. THE SUCCESS RATE IS REALLY VERY HIGH AND CHANCES OF RECURRENCE IS ALMOST ZERO. HEALING PERIOD DEPENDS ON THE LENGTH,WIDTH AND DEPTH OF THE FISTULA. AFTER THE SURGERY, AYURVEDIC MEDICINES WILL HELP IT HEAL FASTER. WISH YOU A SPEEDY RECOVERY. TAKE CARE REGARDS,DR. ANUPRIYA
Understanding Anorectal Fistula after Childbirth An anorectal fistula is an abnormal tunnel that connects the inside of the anal canal to the skin near the anus. When it occurs after childbirth, it’s often a result of a complicated vaginal delivery that may have involved an injury to the anal sphincter muscles or surrounding tissues. The leaking of stool from the hole near the anus is a classic symptom of this condition.
Conventional Treatment Options
Anorectal fistulas almost always require surgical intervention to heal properly. The goal of surgery is to close the fistula while preserving the anal sphincter muscles to prevent incontinence (loss of bowel control). The type of surgery recommended depends on the location and complexity of the fistula, particularly its relationship to the sphincter muscles.
Common surgical options include:
Fistulotomy: This is a common and effective procedure for simple fistulas that do not involve a significant portion of the sphincter muscles. The surgeon cuts along the entire length of the fistula to open it up, allowing it to heal from the inside out as a flat scar. This procedure has a very high success rate (up to 98% for simple fistulas), but the risk of incontinence increases if the fistula passes through a large amount of sphincter muscle.
Seton Placement: If the fistula passes through a significant portion of the sphincter muscles, a surgeon may initially place a “seton”—a piece of surgical thread or rubber drain—in the fistula tract. This allows the fistula to drain and helps it heal, without the immediate need to cut the sphincter muscles. It can be a staged procedure, where the seton is slowly tightened to cut through the fistula over time, or it can be left in place to allow for future, more definitive surgery.
Advancement Flap Procedure: This procedure is considered when a fistulotomy would carry a high risk of incontinence. The surgeon removes or scrapes out the fistula tract and covers the internal opening with a flap of healthy tissue taken from the inside of the rectum. While it helps preserve the sphincter muscles, its success rate can be lower than a fistulotomy.
Ligation of Intersphincteric Fistula Tract (LIFT): This is another sphincter-sparing procedure where the fistula tract is closed off between the two sphincter muscles. It has a good success rate with a low risk of incontinence.
Fibrin Glue or Fistula Plug: These minimally invasive techniques involve injecting a special glue or inserting a plug into the fistula to seal it. While they avoid cutting the muscles, their success rates can be lower than other surgical options.
Healing Time and Success Rates
Healing Time: The healing time for an anorectal fistula after surgery varies widely depending on the type of procedure and the complexity of the fistula. For simple fistulas treated with a fistulotomy, you may be able to return to work within a week or two, but complete healing can take several weeks to a few months.
Success Rates: Success rates vary by procedure and the complexity of the fistula. Fistulotomy has a very high success rate for simple fistulas (94-98%). Sphincter-sparing procedures like LIFT and advancement flaps have varying success rates, generally in the range of 70% to 80%.
Ayurveda Opinion
In Ayurveda, an anorectal fistula is known as “Bhagandara.” The condition is believed to be caused by an imbalance of the three doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha), leading to an accumulation of toxins (Ama) and an obstruction of the body’s channels.
Ayurvedic treatments for anorectal fistula are often referred to as “para-surgical” procedures, meaning they are minimally invasive. The most well-known Ayurvedic treatment is Kshara Sutra Therapy.
Kshara Sutra Therapy: This is a specialized treatment that involves using a medicated thread (Kshara Sutra) coated with alkaline herbal substances. The thread is inserted into the fistula tract and tied. The medicated thread continuously releases its medicinal properties, which work to gradually cut, clean, and heal the fistula tract from the inside out. The thread is typically changed every 7 days until the fistula is completely healed.
Advantages of Kshara Sutra Therapy according to Ayurveda:
Minimally Invasive: It avoids a major surgical incision.
Low Recurrence Rate: Proponents of this therapy claim it has a high success rate and a low chance of the fistula returning.
Preserves Sphincter Muscles: This method is said to be particularly effective in healing the fistula without damaging the anal sphincter muscles, thus reducing the risk of incontinence.
Outpatient Procedure: The procedure and subsequent thread changes are often done on an outpatient basis.
In addition to Kshara Sutra, other Ayurvedic treatments may be used in conjunction, such as:
Oral Medicines: Herbal preparations to correct digestive imbalances, reduce inflammation, and support tissue healing.
Sitz Baths (Avagaha Sweda): Soaking the affected area in warm water with medicated decoctions to reduce pain and inflammation.
Dietary and Lifestyle Modifications: Recommendations for a high-fiber diet, proper hydration, and avoiding straining during bowel movements to prevent constipation.
Anorectal fistula is a chronic and recurrent condition. It is best managed in ayurveda by ksharasutra procedure.
Consult a ayurvedic surgeon for this procedure. The procedure is somewhat painful, but the recurrence is minimal when compared to surgery. This mostly takes 1 month to recover but can’t say exact time. It mostly depends on how fast the tract cut
The procedure is passing a thread which is medicated through the tract and tied at both ends. Overtime the thread cuts the tract and heals it gradually.
HELLO SEEMA,
During childbirth, sometimes tissues between the birth canal and rectum/anal cannal get damaged. Instead of healing completely, a small tunnel (fistula) forms between the inside of the rectum and the skin outside (near anus)
Because of this tunnel, stool or pus leaks through an opening near the anus It doesn’t close on it’s own because -infection keeps the tract alive -the inner lining prevents normal bleeding
So, the main aim of treatment is to remove infection, destroy the abnormal tract, and allow healthy tissue to form.
TREATMENT GOALS -identify the tract completely -keep the area clean and infection free -close the fistula tract either by surgery or kshara sutra -preserve anal control (sphincter muscles)- very important for childbirth related fistulas -improve digestion and bowel habits so healing is not disturbed -prevent recurrence
INVESTIGATIONS NEEDED -MRI fistulogram or Endoanal ultrasound- maps the fistula tract and its relation with anal muscles -Routine blood tests-CBC, sugar levels -sometimes, stool culture if infection is severe
Ayurveda calls fistula Bhagandara. Best results are seen with kshara sutra therapy, supported by herbal medicines, diet and lifestyle
1) PROCEDURAL TREATMENT
KSHARA SUTRA THERAPY -A medicated thread is passed through the tract. -The thread is coated with herbal alkaline medicines like Apamarga kshara , snuhi ksheera, haridra -It gradually cuts the tract, cleans infection, and promotes healing -The thread is changed weekly until the fistula closes DURATION= usually 6-12 weeks SUCCESS RATE= 95%
2) INTERNAL MEDICATIONS
-TRIPHALA GUGUGLU= 2 tabs twice daily after meals =anti-inflammatory, cleanses stool, aids healing
- KAISHOR GUGGULU= 2 tabs twice daily after meals =reduces pus and infection
-HARIDRA CAPSULES= 500 mg twice daily after meals =natural antibiotics
-NEEM CAPSULES= 500mg twice daily after meals =purify blood, prevent recurrence
-ABHYARISHTA= 20 ml with equal water after meals =regulates bowel, prevents constipation
WHY GIVEN= These reduce infection, balance pitta (heat, inflammation), and Vata (pain, irregular healing) and help tissues regenerate
EXTERNAL TREATMENT
1) JATYADI TAILA= used for local applying around the fistula opening
2) SITZ BATH -add panchavalkala decoction -sit in warm water for 10-15 min, twice daily =reduces swelling, pain , infection, helps healing
DIET -High fiber foods= fruits papaya, figs, apple -Vegetables= bottle gourd, spinach, carrot, whole grains -plenty of warm water-prevents constipation -buttermilk with roasted cumin and rock salt- improves digestion -turmeric milk at night- healing
AVOID -spicy, oily, deep fried fods -excess tea, coffee, alcohol -non veg foods, especially red meat
LIFESTYLE -maintain regular bowel habits-> go at fixed times -Avoid sitting for long hours-> if needed, use soft cushion -avoid straining during stool -keep perianal area clean and dry -daily walk 20-30 min-improves circulation
YOGA AND PRANAYAM -Pawanmuktasna= relieves constipation -Malasana= helps rectal health -Vajrasana after meals= improves digestion -Anulom vilom= balances doshas, calms mind -Bhramari= reduces stress, promotes healing Avoid strong asanas that put pressure on perineum until healing
-Your condition is treatable and curable with high success rate -Ayurveda offers safe effective and sphincter- preserving approach with kshara sutra + medicines -Healing may take 2-3 months , patience is needed -Lifestyle, diet, and yoga are as important as medicines in preventing recurrence
DO FOLLOW
HOPE THIS MIGHT BE HELPFUL
THANK YOU
DR. MAITRI ACHARYA
Hey Seema, Kindly visit a nearby MS Shalya ayurvedic physician ( ayurvedic surgeon) for best management.
Ayurvedic Approach: Kshara Sutra Therapy This is a minimally invasive para-surgical procedure using a medicated herbal thread inserted into the fistula tract.
- How it works: The thread gradually cuts, cleanses, and heals the tract while releasing herbal antiseptics.
- Duration: Typically 4–6 weeks depending on tract length and infection severity.
- Benefits: - No hospitalization required - Minimal pain and scarring - Preserves anal sphincter function
Anorectal fistula, especially post-birth, can be distressing. While Ayurveda offers numerous recommendations for this condition, it’s critical to consult with a healthcare provider to rule out complications requiring immediate medical intervention, as Ayurveda might not replace surgical needs.
In Ayurveda, the treatment primarily aims to reduce inflammation, promote healing, and balance the body’s doshas, particularly Vata dosha. The healing process focuses on enhancing your body’s natural repair mechanisms. An important step is maintaining a healthy digestive system. Here are some guidelines:
Dietary Guidelines: Increase intake of fibre-rich food like whole grains, vegetables, and fruits to ease bowel movements without straining. Warm, cooked meals rather than raw or cold foods are preferred to support Agni (digestive fire). Drink plenty of warm water across the day to help cleanse the system and prevent constipation.
Herbal Remedies: Triphala is a popular Ayurvedic solution for digestive health. It helps in regularizing bowel movements and detoxifying the system. You can consume 1 teaspoon of Triphala powder with warm water before bed for its benefits. Sitz baths with warm water and a pinch of turmeric may help reduce local inflammation and discomfort.
Ayurvedic Preparations: Applications such as Jatyadi Taila, an herbal oil, can aid external healing. Clean the area gently and apply the oil daily or as directed.
Success rates: While Ayurveda offers supportive treatment, outcomes vary depending on factors like the fistula’s severity, consistency with the treatment, and individual health. It typically aids symptom management, but persistent fistulas may require surgical intervention ultimately.
Healing time can vary. With dedicated Ayurvedic treatment, minor cases can see improvements within a few weeks to months. However, more significant cases might need surgical review and longer recovery periods.
Always prioritize safety and consult with your healthcare provider especially if symptoms persist or worsen.

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