Learn about Fistula Treatment in India — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Fistula and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Fistula

A fistula is an abnormal connection or passageway that forms between two organs, vessels, or between an organ and the skin. In general surgery, fistula repair is a procedure to close this abnormal tract, which can develop due to infection, inflammation, injury, or as a complication of previous surgery. Common types include anal fistulas (connecting the anal canal to the skin) and enterocutaneous fistulas (connecting the intestine to the skin). The surgical approach depends on the fistula's location, complexity, and cause, and may involve techniques like fistulotomy (opening and draining the tract), fistulectomy (complete removal), or advanced closure using flaps or plugs. The primary goals are to eliminate the tract, prevent recurrence, and preserve normal bodily function.

Key Highlights

    Definitive treatment to close an abnormal connection between organs or to the skin.Alleviates chronic symptoms like drainage, pain, and recurrent infections.Prevents serious complications such as systemic sepsis or organ damage.Various surgical techniques allow for a tailored approach based on fistula type and location.Aims to restore normal anatomy and improve quality of life.

Who is this surgery for?

  • Persistent drainage of pus, stool, or other fluids from an abnormal opening.
  • Recurrent abscesses in the anal, perianal, or abdominal region.
  • Chronic pain and discomfort associated with the fistula tract.
  • Fistulas caused by conditions like Crohn's disease, diverticulitis, or tuberculosis.
  • Fistulas resulting from complications of prior surgery or radiation therapy.
  • Fistulas that do not heal with conservative management like antibiotics or wound care.

How to prepare

  • Complete medical history review and physical examination.
  • Diagnostic imaging such as MRI, CT fistulogram, or ultrasound to map the fistula tract.
  • Blood tests to check for infection and overall health status.
  • Bowel preparation (enema or laxatives) may be required for certain fistulas.
  • Discussion of anesthesia options (local, regional, or general).
  • Fasting for 6-8 hours before the procedure if general anesthesia is used.
  • Adjustment or temporary cessation of certain medications like blood thinners as advised.

Risks & possible complications

  • Bleeding or hematoma at the surgical site.
  • Infection or abscess formation.
  • Damage to nearby structures like the anal sphincter, which can lead to incontinence.
  • Recurrence of the fistula.
  • Delayed wound healing or wound breakdown.
  • Scarring or stricture formation.
  • Reactions to anesthesia.
  • Formation of a new fistula tract.

Recovery & hospital stay

  • Hospital stay is typically short, often same-day or 1-2 days for uncomplicated cases.
  • Pain management with prescribed medications.
  • Keeping the surgical area clean and dry; sitz baths are often recommended for perianal fistulas.
  • Dressing changes as instructed by the surgical team.
  • A high-fiber diet and stool softeners to prevent constipation and strain.
  • Avoidance of strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and prolonged sitting for several weeks.
  • Follow-up appointments to monitor healing and remove any drains or setons.
  • Complete healing of internal tissues may take several weeks to months.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 0-2 days
  • checked Expected recovery time: 2-6 weeks

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering fistula in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for fistula compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India USD 381 – USD 1,632 0-2 days ~ 2-6 weeks Know More
Turkey USD 2,818 – USD 12,079 0-2 days ~ 2-6 weeks Know More

Top hospitals for Fistula in India

These partner hospitals in India have dedicated general surgery teams and experience managing patients undergoing fistula.

Kamineni Hospital, Tadigadapa

  • Iconvijayawada, India
  • Icon44 Doctors

Manipal Hospital Patiala

  • IconPatiala, India
  • Icon52 Doctors

Manipal Hospital Bhubaneswar

  • IconBhubaneshwar, India
  • Icon55 Doctors

Manipal Hospital Dhakuria

  • IconKolkata, India
  • Icon200 Doctors

Manipal Hospital Mukundapur

  • IconKolkata, India
  • Icon145 Doctors

Manipal Hospital Malleshwaram

  • IconBangalore, India
  • Icon105 Doctors
PATIENT REVIEW

I was a total wreck before...

I was a total wreck before my appointment. First time seeing a doctor on my own and I was convinced it was something serious. Dr. Ram just listened, didn't rush me, and explained everything in a way that actually calmed me down. The hospital is huge and a bit overwhelming, but he made it feel okay. Left feeling like I could breathe again.

General surgeons for Fistula

Explore experienced general surgeons who regularly perform fistula and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.

Dr. Prakasam Rangaswamy K
  • 32 Years Experience
  • General surgeon
Speaks: English, Tamil, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Miot Hospital Chennai

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Anand N S
  • 19 Years Experience
  • General surgeon
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Sathish N
  • 19 Years Experience
  • General surgeon
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Ramraj Vemala Nagendra Gupta
  • 16 Years Experience
  • General surgeon
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Vinay A V
  • 12 Years Experience
  • General surgeon
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Veeresh Annigeri
  • 10 Years Experience
  • General surgeon
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Yeshwanthpur

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Hemanth Kumar P
  • 28 Years Experience
  • General surgeon
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road

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Dr. Viswanath S
  • 25 Years Experience
  • General surgeon
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Sarjapur Road

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Dr. Karthikeyan S
  • 14 Years Experience
  • General surgeon
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Salem

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Aritra Ghosh
  • 17 Years Experience
  • General surgeon
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Whitefield

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Dr. Manjunath Haridas
  • 14 Years Experience
  • General surgeon
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Whitefield

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Dr. Madva Jayashankar
  • 38 Years Experience
  • General surgeon
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Sampath Kumar
  • 27 Years Experience
  • General surgeon
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Surinder Singh
  • 42 Years Experience
  • General surgeon
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Patiala

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Pankaj Kumar Garg
  • 12 Years Experience
  • General surgeon
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Patiala

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Rajinder
  • 11 Years Experience
  • General surgeon
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Patiala

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Sreeharsha M V
  • 19 Years Experience
  • General surgeon
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Mysore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Sridhar Pandit
  • 40 Years Experience
  • General surgeon
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Malleshwaram

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Dr. Deepak Rohidekar
  • 38 Years Experience
  • General surgeon
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Malleshwaram

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Raghunandan B V
  • 36 Years Experience
  • General surgeon
Speaks: English, Hindi
Next available on
02/Feb: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Malleshwaram

OPD-desk synced • Updated
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