An abnormal connection of one part of the body to another is called a fistula. When such linkage occurs in the anus it is called an anal fistula. This is a connection between the interior anal canal and the skin towards the outside of the anus. There are many kinds of anal fistulae and they may occur for a variety of reasons like infection, abscess, pus or other diseases. It is commonly seen in patients suffering from inflammatory bowel diseases.

Common symptoms of an anal fistula would be pain, tenderness, swelling, and irritation in the anal region. Itching may also be experienced. The infection may also cause slight fever, tiredness, chills, and weakness. One may not feel like eating heavy or spicy food and might feel uncomfortable.

The healing of this abnormality is not natural.
Either the sufferer will require medication or he will require a surgery to be performed.
The medication that may be administered would mainly consist of antibiotics. When simple medication does not work, a surgery would have to be performed. A surgery for the anal fistulae present in the lower end of the digestive canal is called Fistulotomy.

The procedure is simple. The surgeon will create an incision on the fistula tube. He will then merge it with the region of the rectum where it is connected. The zone is hence sealed and further abnormal communication between the regions is stopped. Undue passed of blood or other body fluids is restricted. Consequently, the region will heal.

The procedure is generally carried out under local anesthesia, when the abnormality linkage is not very large. However, when a large anal fistula has formed, it may become inevitable to carry out a more elaborate surgical procedure.

For instance, when the channel is relatively deep inside the body, a Seton may be used. A Seton is a type of suture material which is used to tie the abnormal tract. A loop is formed which tightens over a period of time. This results in curing. Alternatively, Fibrin glue may be used to form a clot in the tract to seal it. In a complicated condition, the Endorectal Advancement Flap method may be used. Here, a part of the rectal wall is dissected and a flap is created which is used to cover the internal opening. Subsequently, one of the medical products called the Anal Fistula Plug can be used. This is a conical unit made up of advanced tissue graft which promotes tissue growth in the affected area.

Hence, despite pain and anxiety, one may be reassured that the condition is curable and one can easily restore a healthy life.