Recovery Time After Anal Fissure Surgery: What to Expect

The recovery time for a fissure surgery can vary depending on the individual and the extent of the procedure. Generally, patients can expect the wound to heal within 4 to 6 weeks. However, complete recovery

Hello Dr.
Zhang, I underwent anal fissure surgery and sentinel mole excision in mid-May, and it has been two months since the surgery.
I am still experiencing pain at the surgical site.
I would like to ask the following questions:
1.
How long does it typically take for the surgical wound to fully heal? How long does it take for the anal sphincter wound to completely heal? Currently, the wound on my sphincter still has scabs and has not healed.
Is the presence of scabs the same as scarring, as mentioned online? Is it common for surgeries of this type to have this phenomenon? Given that it has been two months, is it possible that I may not fully recover and require additional treatment?
2.
If the sphincter wound has not healed and has scabs or scars, could this affect the normal contraction of the sphincter? Would the sphincter be less elastic, potentially leading to incomplete closure of the anal opening? In the case where the wound has not fully healed, could the anal opening appear without normal anal folds and be incompletely closed?
Thank you.

Jiu Xiansheng, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/07/14

Dr. Zhang Shuhao reply Surgery

1.
Anal fissure surgery typically involves the excision of the ulcer and relaxation of the sphincter muscle, with the wound generally healing in about four to six weeks.
The terms "sphincter scarring" and "scab formation" usually refer to the same process.

2.
After the sphincter wound has scabbed over, the local area may slightly lose elasticity due to scar tissue, but this does not affect the contraction of the sphincter muscle, nor does it impact the closure of the anal canal, and it will not lead to incontinence symptoms.

Reply Date: 2023/07/14

More Info

After undergoing anal fissure surgery, it is common to experience discomfort and pain during the recovery period. The healing process can vary significantly from person to person, depending on various factors such as the extent of the surgery, individual healing capacity, and adherence to post-operative care instructions.
1. Recovery Time: Generally, the complete healing of the surgical site, including the anal sphincter, can take anywhere from 6 to 8 weeks, but in some cases, it may take longer. The presence of scabs is a normal part of the healing process, as they protect the underlying tissue while it regenerates. Scabs are not the same as scars; scabs are temporary protective coverings that form over a wound, while scars are the result of the healing process once the tissue has fully repaired itself. It is not unusual for patients to have scabs at the two-month mark post-surgery, and this does not necessarily indicate a complication. However, if the pain persists or worsens, or if there are signs of infection (such as increased redness, swelling, or discharge), it is essential to consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

2. Sphincter Function: The healing of the anal sphincter is crucial for maintaining proper function. If the wound has not healed completely and there are still scabs present, it is possible that the sphincter may not function optimally during this time. This could lead to issues such as reduced elasticity or improper closure of the anal canal, which might manifest as incontinence or difficulty controlling bowel movements. It is also possible for the anal area to appear less defined or have fewer folds (the "anal wrinkles") during the healing process, particularly if there is swelling or inflammation present.
In summary, while it is normal to experience some discomfort and to see scabs during the recovery phase, it is crucial to monitor your symptoms closely. If you have concerns about the healing process or if you experience significant pain, changes in bowel habits, or any other unusual symptoms, it is advisable to follow up with your surgeon or a healthcare professional. They can assess your healing progress and determine if any additional treatments or interventions are necessary.
In the meantime, following post-operative care instructions, maintaining a high-fiber diet, staying hydrated, and practicing good anal hygiene can help facilitate healing and improve comfort during recovery. Remember that patience is key, as healing takes time, and each individual's recovery journey is unique.

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