Questions regarding the condition three months after anal fistula surgery?
Hello, doctor.
I underwent anal fistula surgery at the end of February this year, where the doctor performed a fistulotomy.
During this period, I took about 20 days off work to rest.
I have been taking sitz baths three times a day, and after bowel movements, I rinse and take an additional sitz bath.
After returning to work, I continued with three sitz baths a day (since I usually have bowel movements in the morning at the office).
Recently, around mid-May (about three months post-surgery), I accidentally touched the wound while showering and noticed a small hard lump.
I was worried it might be a recurrence.
The next day, since my original surgeon was unavailable, I went to see a doctor at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital.
During the anoscopy, the doctor pulled out the scope and noted blood on it, indicating that my internal wound had not healed yet.
It was unclear if this meant a recurrence.
The doctor prescribed two types of oral antibiotics and a hemorrhoid suppository (for a total of 14 days, with a follow-up appointment needed for more medication).
He mentioned that this would help solidify the scab from the fistulotomy and prevent stool from seeping in.
However, the day after the anoscopy, I noticed increased swelling at the wound site, and it was painful to walk.
Later, when I checked my underwear at home, I saw some yellow discharge but was unsure if it was from the suppository or something else.
I smelled it and did not detect any foul odor.
After showering, I treated the ruptured wound, which was bleeding slightly but did not show any pus.
A couple of days ago, I returned to the original surgeon at Renai Hospital for a check-up.
He also performed an anoscopy and stated that he did not see any signs of recurrence or new fistula formation.
He advised me to continue taking antibiotics and applying a topical ointment, and to keep doing sitz baths twice a day.
However, today after having a bowel movement at work, I noticed another hard lump at the wound site, which was painful when pressed.
I returned for further evaluation, and the doctor lanced it, but only clear blood came out.
After returning home, I still felt hardness inside, and pressing it was somewhat painful.
I also occasionally experience itching, and I am unsure if this is normal.
I would like to ask, after approximately three months post-fistulotomy, I have seen doctors at Chang Gung and the original surgeon at Renai Hospital, both of whom said there were no signs of a fistula.
However, I am puzzled about the hard lump—could it be scar tissue? Is it normal for it to be painful and occasionally itchy? Can I supplement with zinc and vitamin C to promote faster healing of the internal wound? Additionally, on June 2nd and 3rd, I noticed that after bowel movements, the affected area became very itchy and even swollen.
However, after a sitz bath, the swelling subsided.
When using wet wipes, I noticed a small structure connected to something resembling a tube leading to the anal opening.
Given that it has been three months since the fistulotomy, is it still possible to feel the original fistula? Could the swelling and itching be caused by keloid formation? I appreciate your assistance.
Thank you.
Regarding the hemorrhoid suppository: Yizhi Kang suppository.
Current condition: From late April to mid-May, I had to study at night, so I consumed energy drinks.
I usually have a sensitive gastrointestinal tract and am prone to diarrhea.
Due to studying, I sometimes only get 4.5 to 5 hours of sleep a night.
Wenwen, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/06/03
Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
Postoperative hard lumps at the wound site may be scar tissue resulting from good healing, but there is also a possibility of recurrence.
If both physicians do not suspect recurrence, then the likelihood of it being scar tissue is greater.
Scar tissue generally takes about six months to a year to gradually absorb.
There is no literature confirming that supplementation with zinc and vitamin C can accelerate the healing of internal wounds.
Feeling a tube may indicate a recurrence of a fistula or could be a linear scar tissue from the incision path.
This should be evaluated by an experienced physician for accurate diagnosis.
Reply Date: 2024/06/03
More Info
After undergoing anal fistula surgery, particularly a fistulotomy, it is common to have concerns about the healing process, especially around the three-month mark post-operation. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing a range of symptoms including pain, swelling, and the presence of hard lumps around the surgical site. Let's address your concerns systematically.
Firstly, the presence of a hard lump at the surgical site can indeed be a sign of scar tissue formation, which is a normal part of the healing process. Scar tissue can feel firmer than the surrounding tissue and may be sensitive to touch. It is also not uncommon for patients to experience some discomfort or pain in the area as it heals. This can be exacerbated by activities such as sitting, moving, or even during bowel movements. The itching you describe is also a common symptom during the healing process, as the area may be sensitive and the skin can become irritated.
Regarding your concern about the possibility of a recurrence of the fistula, it is reassuring that multiple doctors have examined you and found no signs of a new fistula or recurrence. The fact that you are experiencing some bleeding and fluid discharge is not unusual, especially if the area is still healing. However, if you notice any foul odor or significant changes in the discharge, it would be prudent to consult your physician again.
The use of antibiotics and topical treatments, as prescribed by your doctors, is aimed at preventing infection and promoting healing. It is essential to follow their recommendations closely. The fact that you are experiencing increased swelling and pain after certain activities, such as bowel movements, could indicate that the area is still quite sensitive and may require more time to heal fully.
As for your question about zinc and vitamin C supplementation, both nutrients can play a role in wound healing. Zinc is known to support immune function and is essential for cell division and growth, while vitamin C is crucial for collagen synthesis, which is vital for the healing of tissues. However, it is always best to discuss any supplementation with your healthcare provider to ensure it is appropriate for your specific situation.
The symptoms you describe, including the hard lump and the potential for keloid (or hypertrophic) scarring, can be common after such surgeries. Keloids are raised scars that can form when the body produces too much collagen during the healing process. If you suspect that you may be developing a keloid, it is essential to discuss this with your doctor, as they can provide options for management, which may include corticosteroid injections or other treatments.
In summary, while some discomfort, swelling, and the presence of hard lumps can be normal after anal fistula surgery, it is crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare providers. They can monitor your healing process and intervene if necessary. If you continue to experience significant pain, changes in discharge, or any new symptoms, do not hesitate to seek medical advice. Your recovery is important, and ensuring that you are healing correctly is paramount.
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