A fistula is a medical condition that many people often overlook, assuming it will heal on its own. However, leaving a fistula untreated can lead to serious complications, discomfort, and infections. Understanding what a fistula is, why it occurs, and the risks of delaying treatment is essential for timely medical intervention, says Dr Amita Jain, a leading general and laparoscopic surgeon and one of the best doctors for fistula treatment and surgery in Delhi and India.
What is a Fistula?
A fistula is an abnormal connection or tunnel that forms between two organs or tissues that are not normally connected. In the context of rectal health, it typically develops between the end portion of the digestive tract and the skin in the area surrounding it. Fistulas often result from chronic inflammation, infection, or after surgical procedures in the rectal region. The condition can cause persistent discharge, irritation, and recurrent infections if not managed properly.
Why Does Fistula Happen?
Fistulas usually develop due to an underlying infection or inflammation that creates a pathway between the end portion of the digestive tract and surrounding tissue. Some common causes include:
- Chronic infections in the rectal glands
- Untreated abscesses or boils in the rectal region
- Inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease
- Previous surgeries or trauma near the rectal area
Essentially, the body attempts to drain pus or infection, creating a tunnel that eventually forms a fistula.
What are the Risks of Not Treating a Fistula on Time?
If a fistula is left untreated, several complications can arise:
- Persistent Infection
The ongoing tunnel allows bacteria to remain active, causing repeated infections. Over time, this can lead to fever, swelling, and severe discomfort. - Chronic Discharge and Irritation
An untreated fistula can produce continuous discharge, which irritates the surrounding skin and can cause soreness, itching, or rashes. - Spread of Infection
The infection may extend to nearby tissues or organs, increasing the risk of serious health problems that may require more extensive treatment. - Formation of Multiple Fistulas
Sometimes, untreated fistulas can lead to additional tunnels forming, making the condition more complicated and difficult to treat surgically. - Impact on Daily Life
The persistent symptoms of a fistula—pain, discomfort, and discharge—can affect a person’s daily activities, sleep, and overall quality of life.
Prompt treatment of a fistula condition is crucial to avoid complications and ensure proper healing. Ignoring the condition can lead to chronic infection, tissue damage, and more complex medical procedures in the future. Anyone experiencing symptoms such as discharge, swelling, or persistent irritation in the rectal area should seek medical advice immediately. Early intervention often results in simpler treatment, faster recovery, and a much better outcome.
Dr Amita Jain is one of the most experienced and highly skilled general and laparoscopic surgeons in Delhi and India. Known for her exceptional surgical precision and patient-first approach, she offers expert care across a wide range of procedures, using both open and minimally invasive techniques to ensure faster recovery and better outcomes. Dr Amita Jain holds 28 plus years of rich experience in Trauma and General Laparoscopic Surgeries (including Gallbladder stone removal, appendix removal, hernia repair surgery, piles and fissure surgeries). She was the Professor Surgery of at the Army College of Medical Sciences. In 1994 she was commissioned as Surgeon under the United Nations Mission in Congo. From 2020 to 2022, she worked with Bansals Hospital. Currently, Dr Amita Jain is the Sr. General and Laparoscopic Surgeon at Rainbow Children Hospitals, Malviya Nagar, Delhi.
As a top female surgeon in Delhi, Dr Amita Jain brings decades of experience, compassion, and a commitment to surgical excellence. She has undergone advanced training in trauma surgery and has successfully performed numerous complex procedures, including life-saving surgeries, vascular repairs, mangled limb reconstructions, and critical care surgeries. Whether it’s a planned surgery or an emergency situation, patients across Delhi trust Dr Amita Jain for her expertise, integrity, and results-driven approach to general and laparoscopic surgery.
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