Have you undergone surgery for an anal fistula, only to find that it came back again? You are not alone. Many patients feel frustrated and hopeless when the problem recurs after one or even two surgeries.
At Karan Hospital, we understand how emotionally and physically draining this condition can be. In this blog, we will explain why fistulas return, how they form, and what you can do to find lasting relief.
The anal canal is one of the most infection-prone areas of the body. It contains tiny glands on either side, just inside the anus. These glands help secrete mucus, but sometimes, a stool particle or mucus plug can block a gland, especially in people with constipation or hard stools.
Once blocked, bacteria quickly multiply and form an abscess—a pocket of pus. If this abscess is not completely drained or bursts on its own, it creates a small tunnel under the skin called a fistula.
This tunnel connects the infected gland (inside the anus) to the skin surface outside. And if not treated completely including all extensions, branches, and the internal opening the fistula may keep coming back.
Many patients ask:
"Doctor, I've already had surgery. Why is the fistula back again?"
Here are the most common reasons:
Fistulas often have hidden branches or deep extensions, especially in complex or recurrent cases. If any part of the tract is missed during surgery, the infection remains inside and reactivates later.
The root of every fistula is its internal opening in the anal canal. If this opening isnclosed or properly treated, infection continues to leak into the tract even if the outer wound heals temporarily.
Some fistulas pass above or through the anal sphincter muscles, or even reach up to the supralevator space. These require advanced imaging (MRI) and specialized treatment like laser surgery, coring techniques, or staged procedures. Simple surgeries may not be effective here.
Patients with diabetes, weak immunity, smoking habits, or poor wound care may not heal properly. This can also lead to recurrence despite good surgery.
At Karan Hospital, we specialize in minimally invasive, sphincter-saving treatments for complex and recurrent fistulas. Here is how we approach it:
We always start with an MRI to map the full fistula tract, including hidden branches, abscesses, and internal openings.
Depending on your fistula type, we may use:
• Laser
• Fistula Tract Coring (ProctoCor)
• VAAFT (Video-Assisted Anal Fistula Treatment)
• LIFT Procedure
• Seton Placement and Staging
Each technique is designed to treat the fistula from the inside out, reduce trauma, and preserve your anal sphincter minimizing the risk of incontinence.
Many of our patients come to us after failed surgeries elsewhere. We focus not just on removing infection, but on healing the disease completely, technically and biologically.
Fistulas recur not because you did not follow post-op care, but because the disease is deep, complex, and tricky. It requires an experienced eye, modern tools, and personalized care.
At Karan Hospital, we combine the latest techniques with years of experience treating all types of fistulas, including those that have returned after surgery.📞 Call us today 86999 15050
Do not suffer in silence. A permanent solution may need a better plan.
Let us treat your fistula not just once, but for good.
Consultant Laparoscopic Surgeon & Proctologist
Trained in Laser
Proctology , Berlin , Germany
Fellow of
International Society of Coloproctology
Fellow International Society of University Colon and
Rectal Surgeons ,
USA
Member Vascular Society of India
30 Years
of Experience
For the last 5 Years I had been suffering from pain and bleeding after defecation. I was afraid of surgery but somebody told me about the LASER treatment that Karan Hospital was offering. I am so glad to come here and now I am fully cured. Experience was excellent. Totally satisfied.
I got very good treatment for my piles with the LASER technique. No cuts, no stitches, my treatment went very smoothly.
I would like to thank Dr. Kamal Gupta. It was wonderful and unique experience. The charges were reasonable in comparison to the satisfaction and kind of service I received during my treatment.
Dr. K Gupta M.S. Sergon is a good person and he has good knowledge. The latest equipments, ensuring the best caring in this hospital and behavior of all the staff are good.
