Anal Fissure Surgery: What to Expect and Recovery Tips - Surgery

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Understanding anal fissure surgery is crucial for anyone considering this procedure. An anal fissure is a small tear in the lining of the anus, often causing significant pain and discomfort during bowel movements. Surgery is typically considered when conservative treatments, such as dietary changes, topical medications, and stool softeners, fail to provide relief.


What to Expect from Anal Fissure Surgery
1. Types of Surgery: The most common surgical procedure for anal fissures is lateral internal sphincterotomy. This involves cutting a small portion of the anal sphincter muscle to relieve tension and promote healing. In some cases, a doctor may opt to remove only the skin tag or the hypertrophied anal papilla (the "乳凸" you mentioned) without addressing the underlying muscle. However, this approach may lead to a recurrence of the fissure if the underlying tension is not alleviated.

2. Scar Tissue: If the scar tissue from the initial fissure is not addressed, there is a possibility that it could lead to the formation of another skin tag or fissure in the future. The decision to leave the scar tissue untreated should be made in consultation with your surgeon, considering your specific condition and history of fissures.

3. Sphincter Involvement: Not all fissure surgeries require cutting the anal sphincter. The decision to perform a sphincterotomy depends on the severity of the fissure and the presence of chronic symptoms. Your surgeon will evaluate your condition and discuss the best approach for you.

4. Postoperative Pain: Pain after anal fissure surgery can vary from person to person. Generally, patients may experience discomfort for several days to a couple of weeks post-surgery. Pain management is an essential part of recovery, and your doctor will likely prescribe pain relief medications to help manage this discomfort.

5. Recovery Time: Most patients can expect to return to normal activities within a week or two, but full recovery may take longer, especially if there are complications or if the surgery was more extensive. It's essential to follow your surgeon's postoperative care instructions closely to promote healing.


Recommendations for Follow-Up Care
- Consultation: If your family is suggesting that you seek a second opinion at a facility like Lin Kou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, it may be beneficial to do so. Getting a second opinion can provide you with more information and options regarding your treatment.

- Choosing a Specialist: When looking for a specialist, consider consulting a colorectal surgeon or a gastroenterologist with experience in treating anal fissures. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation and discuss the best surgical options tailored to your needs.

- Postoperative Care: After surgery, maintaining a high-fiber diet, staying hydrated, and possibly using stool softeners can help prevent constipation and reduce strain during bowel movements, which is crucial for recovery.


Conclusion
In summary, anal fissure surgery can provide significant relief for chronic fissures, but the decision on how to proceed should be made with careful consideration of your specific situation. Discussing your concerns about scar tissue and the need for sphincterotomy with your surgeon will help you make an informed decision. Remember that recovery is a process, and following your doctor's advice will be key to a successful outcome. If you have further questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.