Anal Warts: Recovery, Surgery, and Long-Term Outcomes

Q: Anal Warts: Recovery, Surgery, and Long-Term Outcomes

Hello： I apologize for the delayed response due to other commitments and unstable internet connection. <br>The use of electrocautery can lead to localized tissue fibrosis, damage, or scarring, so it is expected that there may be tightness around the anal area. <br>As for whether

Anal warts surgery

In July 2014, I discovered warts both inside and outside my anus.
It wasn't until October 2014 that I underwent electrosurgery.
Over the next six months, I had two electrosurgery sessions, but they didn't seem to be effective.
Later, due to the cost, I ended the treatment in April 2015.
After waiting for the wounds to heal, I noticed that warts had reappeared outside my anus.
However, in July 2015, while taking a shower, I felt the area around my anus and found that all the wart-like bumps had disappeared, leaving a flat surface.
I would like to ask the doctor, is this possible?
Additionally, during my second electrosurgery in 2014, the doctor mentioned that I would need anal reconstruction.
After the wound healed, I felt that the area near the anal opening became very tight, which somewhat affected my sexual activity.
Is this normal? I have used my fingers for insertion and can feel a raised area, but it doesn't feel like typical warts; rather, it feels like scar tissue or fibrous folds.
The internal folds have not enlarged for over a year, and the external warts have not recurred for more than a year.
Can I be certain that I have gotten rid of the warts?

Jojo, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/10/14

Dr. Sun Hongshun reply Urology

Hello: I apologize for the delayed response due to other commitments and unstable internet connection.
The use of electrocautery can lead to localized tissue fibrosis, damage, or scarring, so it is expected that there may be tightness around the anal area.
As for whether you have eliminated the condyloma, I still recommend an evaluation at a urology specialty clinic.
I would like to remind you of the importance of practicing safe sex.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/10/14

More Info

Anal warts, also known as condylomata acuminata, are caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV). They can appear around the anus and genital area and may vary in size and shape. Your experience with the treatment and subsequent changes in the appearance of the warts raises several important points regarding recovery, surgery, and long-term outcomes.

Firstly, it is not uncommon for anal warts to initially respond poorly to treatments such as electrosurgery, especially if the warts are extensive or if the HPV strain is particularly resilient. The fact that you underwent multiple treatments without significant improvement is a common scenario for many patients. However, the spontaneous resolution of warts, as you described in July 2015, is also a possibility. The immune system can sometimes clear the virus over time, leading to the disappearance of warts without further intervention. This phenomenon is supported by clinical observations where patients report the resolution of warts after a period of time, even after unsuccessful treatments.

Regarding your concern about the tightness and discomfort you experienced after the anal reconstruction surgery, it is important to understand that surgical interventions in the anal region can lead to changes in tissue elasticity and sensation. Scar tissue formation is a normal part of the healing process, and it can result in a feeling of tightness or discomfort during activities such as sexual intercourse. The presence of raised areas or folds that you describe may be due to scar tissue or hyperplastic tissue, which can occur after surgery. It is advisable to discuss these symptoms with your healthcare provider, as they can assess whether these changes are within the normal range of post-surgical outcomes or if they require further evaluation.

As for the long-term outlook, while it is encouraging that you have not experienced a recurrence of the anal warts for over a year, it is essential to remain vigilant. HPV can remain dormant in the body, and while the visible warts may have resolved, the virus can still be present. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are recommended to monitor for any signs of recurrence. Additionally, practicing safe sex and discussing HPV vaccination with your healthcare provider can help reduce the risk of future outbreaks.

In conclusion, your experience with anal warts and their treatment highlights the complexities of managing HPV-related conditions. The spontaneous resolution of warts is possible, and post-surgical changes such as tightness and scar tissue formation are not uncommon. Continuous monitoring and open communication with your healthcare provider will be key in ensuring your long-term health and well-being. If you have any further concerns or notice any changes, do not hesitate to seek medical advice.

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