An anal fistula is a small tunnel-like tract that forms between the skin around the anus and the inside of the anal canal. It is usually the result of an infection in an anal gland, which then creates a passageway for pus to drain out, causing the formation of a fistula. Anal fistulas can be painful and can cause recurrent abscesses and drainage of pus or blood from an opening near the anus.

The most common cause of anal fistulas is an anal abscess, which is a collection of pus that forms in the tissues around the anus. When the abscess does not heal properly or fully drain, it can lead to the development of a fistula.

Symptoms of an anal fistula may include:

• Persistent or recurrent pain around the anus.
• Swelling or a small lump near the anus.
• Discharge of pus or blood from an opening near the anus.
• Itching and irritation around the anus.
• Fever and feeling unwell in cases of infection.

Treatment : There’s no medication to fix the condition, so surgery is used. The procedure can usually take place in a doctor’s office or clinic. You won’t have to go to the hospital.

• For a simple fistula that isn’t too close to your anus, the doctor will cut open the skin and muscle surrounding the tunnel. This allows the opening to heal from the inside out.
• They may use a plug to close the fistula.
• For a more complicated fistula, the doctor might put a tube — known as a seton — into the opening. This helps drain the infected fluid before surgery. It could take 6 weeks or more.

Depending on where the fistula is, your doctor may have to cut into the sphincter muscles that open and close your anus. They’ll try not to damage them, but it may be harder to control your bowels after the procedure.