Lateral Internal Sphincterotomy is a precise surgical intervention designed to alleviate discomfort and promote healing from chronic anal fissures. This procedure targets the internal sphincter muscle, reducing its tension to ease pain and improve the healing environment within the anal canal. If you are struggling with persistent pain or recurrent fissures that have not responded to conventional treatments, consider consulting with Pristyn Care’s team of expert colorectal surgeons. They specialise in minimally invasive sphincterotomy techniques for a faster recovery and effective relief. Book your appointment today.
Lateral Internal Sphincterotomy is a precise surgical intervention designed to alleviate discomfort and ... Read More
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A lateral internal sphincterotomy is a surgical procedure aimed at treating chronic anal fissures. These fissures can cause severe pain and bleeding during bowel movements. A specialist surgeon, often a colorectal surgeon, performs this surgery.Â
The main purpose of the procedure is to reduce the spasming of the sphincter muscle, which helps alleviate pain and facilitate healing of the fissure. This surgery provides significant relief and is typically considered when other, less invasive treatments have not been successful. It has a high success rate, making it a beneficial option for those suffering from persistent symptoms.
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Lateral internal sphincterotomy, a surgical method for treating chronic anal fissures, employs two primary techniques: open and closed. Both aim to decrease muscle tension, aiding in symptom relief and healing.
Closed Technique: In contrast, the closed technique does not involve direct visualisation of the muscle. Instead, the surgeon uses palpation to locate the sphincter muscle and makes a small stab incision in the skin to divide it. This method is less invasive and reduces potential complications related to wound healing.
Effective diagnosis is crucial before proceeding with a lateral internal sphincterotomy. The diagnosis begins with a detailed assessment of the patient’s symptoms and medical history. Here are the key diagnostic methods:
Manometry: Occasionally, if the diagnosis is unclear, manometry is used to measure the pressure inside the anal sphincter, which can indicate underlying issues contributing to the fissure.
Here are the steps involved in the lateral internal sphincterotomy procedure:
Recovery: Post-operative care involves pain management and instructions on hygiene to prevent infection. Patients might receive dietary recommendations to soften stool and ease the healing process.
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Identifying the right candidates for lateral internal sphincterotomy is crucial for achieving optimal outcomes. This surgery is specifically designed for patients who have not responded to other treatments for anal fissures.
Here are the criteria to determine a patient’s eligibility:
No Significant Comorbid Conditions: Patients with certain conditions that could complicate surgery or anaesthesia may not be suitable candidates.
Lateral internal sphincterotomy is an effective surgical treatment primarily used to address chronic anal fissures. This procedure offers several significant benefits:
Preparing for a lateral internal sphincterotomy is crucial for ensuring the success of the surgery and minimising risks:
Arrange Transportation: Arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery, as you will not be able to drive yourself.
Recovery from a lateral internal sphincterotomy is generally quick, but proper care is essential:
Watch for Complications: Be alert for signs of infection or unusual pain, which should be reported to your doctor immediately.
While lateral internal sphincterotomy is generally safe and effective, like all surgical procedures, it carries potential risks and complications. Understanding these risks can help patients make informed decisions and recognise symptoms early.
Patients considering this surgery should discuss all potential risks and complications with their surgeon to fully understand the implications and management strategies.
Lateral internal sphincterotomy is a surgical procedure primarily used to treat chronic anal fissures. It involves making a small incision to partially cut the internal anal sphincter muscle. This reduces muscle tension, alleviates pain, and promotes healing of the fissure. It is typically recommended after other non-surgical treatments have failed to provide relief.
Recovery time varies, but most patients can return to normal activities within one week. Complete healing of the area may take several weeks, during which care is needed to manage discomfort and prevent complications. Follow-up visits are essential to monitor healing and manage any postoperative symptoms.
Lateral internal sphincterotomy can be performed using either an open or closed technique. The open technique involves directly visualising the internal sphincter and making an incision, while the closed technique involves a small incision without direct visualisation, relying on palpation to guide the procedure. Both methods aim to reduce sphincter pressure and alleviate symptoms.
Disadvantages include potential risks such as bleeding, infection, and particularly the risk of temporary or permanent incontinence of gas or stool. There is also a small risk of anal fissure recurrence. Pain and discomfort during recovery can affect daily activities.
The cost of a lateral internal sphincterotomy in India can vary widely depending on the hospital, location, and the surgeon’s expertise. Generally, the procedure is more affordable in India compared to many Western countries. Prices can range from approximately ₹20,000 to ₹50,000. This variation in cost includes the surgeon’s fees, hospital charges, and anaesthesia. Patients should consult specific hospitals for exact pricing and also consider if their health insurance might cover part of the costs.
In the open technique of lateral internal sphincterotomy, stitches may be used to close the incision. However, the closed technique often does not require stitches as it involves only a small cut. The decision on stitching depends on the specific method used and the surgeon’s discretion.
Yes, fissures can return after a lateral internal sphincterotomy, although this is relatively rare. The procedure has a high success rate, but recurrence can occur, especially if underlying issues such as chronic constipation are not managed effectively.
Like any surgical procedure, lateral internal sphincterotomy carries risks. The most significant risks include bleeding, infection, and the potential for incontinence. However, it is generally considered safe and effective with a skilled surgeon, especially when conservative treatments have failed.
Alternatives to lateral internal sphincterotomy include non-surgical treatments such as topical ointments, botox injections into the sphincter muscle, and lifestyle changes like increased dietary fibre intake. These alternatives are usually considered before surgical options and can be effective for less severe cases.
The level of pain experienced after lateral internal sphincterotomy can vary but is typically manageable with pain relief medications. Patients may experience discomfort, particularly during bowel movements, in the initial recovery phase. Pain management is an important part of postoperative care.