Anal Fistula Surgery Specialist in Phoenix AZ
Anal fistula surgery treats an abnormal tunnel between the anal canal and the skin, preventing infections, pain, and drainage. Our experienced team at Phoenix Unified Surgeons offers advanced treatment options tailored to each patient, ensuring proper healing and long-term relief. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 20333 N 19th Avenue, Ste 230, Phoenix, AZ 85027.


Table of Contents:
What is anal fistula surgery and when is it recommended?
How long does it take to recover from anal fistula surgery?
Can an anal fistula recur after surgery?
How long should you wait before resuming normal activities after anal fistula surgery?
Our experienced surgical team at Phoenix Unified Surgeons is dedicated to delivering personalized treatment plans, utilizing state-of-the-art techniques to ensure the best outcomes for our patients. We offer a range of surgical options depending on the complexity and location of the fistula. Common procedures include fistulotomy, where the tract is opened to promote healing, and the seton technique, which aids in draining infection and facilitating recovery. For more complex cases, we may employ advanced methods such as the endorectal advancement flap or the ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT).
Surgery is typically recommended when patients experience persistent symptoms like pain, swelling, or recurrent abscesses, or when the fistula’s complexity poses a risk for further complications. Our goal is to alleviate these symptoms while preserving function and preventing potential issues such as incontinence. The decision to proceed with surgery is made collaboratively, following a thorough evaluation of the patient’s overall health, the specific characteristics of the fistula, and an assessment of the risks and benefits involved.
Typically, patients can expect an initial recovery period of about two to six weeks. During this time, it’s normal to experience some pain and discomfort, particularly in the first few days post-surgery. Our surgeons prioritize effective pain management and may prescribe medications to help alleviate discomfort, ensuring that our patients have a more comfortable recovery experience.
Following surgery, it’s crucial to adhere to the specific instructions provided by your healthcare team. This may include keeping the surgical area clean, maintaining a high-fiber diet to facilitate smooth bowel movements, and avoiding activities that could place undue strain on the surgical site. Regular follow-up appointments at our practice will allow us to closely monitor your healing progress and address any concerns that may arise.
In some instances, especially with complex fistulas, full recovery may take longer. Our team encourages patients to remain patient and communicate openly with us to ensure optimal healing. If any persistent symptoms or complications occur, it’s important to contact us promptly for further evaluation and management.
Our goal at Phoenix Unified Surgeons is to help you resume your normal activities as soon as possible, typically within a couple of months. With our comprehensive care and support, you can expect a gradual improvement in symptoms and increased comfort over time. Your health and well-being are our top priorities, and we are committed to guiding you through every step of your recovery journey.
Anal fistulas, abnormal connections between the anal canal and the skin, often result from infections and can cause significant discomfort. Our practice specializes in a variety of surgical procedures, including fistulotomy, seton placement, and advancement flap procedures, each selected based on the specific characteristics of the fistula to ensure the best possible results for our patients.
The complexity of the fistula and the surgical technique employed are critical factors in the success of the treatment and the likelihood of recurrence. We prioritize personalized care plans, taking into account each patient’s unique situation, including any underlying health conditions such as Crohn’s disease, to enhance healing and minimize recurrence risks.
Our surgeons’ expertise at Phoenix Unified Surgeons is complemented by our comprehensive post-operative care program, which is designed to support optimal healing and prevent complications. We emphasize the importance of proper wound care and regular follow-up appointments to monitor progress and address any concerns promptly.
For patients with conditions that may affect healing, such as compromised immune systems or smoking habits, we offer additional support and guidance to promote recovery. We encourage open communication with our patients, ensuring they feel informed and supported throughout their treatment journey.
We are dedicated to delivering high-quality surgical care and ensuring our patients receive the attention and expertise they deserve. By focusing on personalized treatment strategies and attentive post-operative care, we strive to achieve the best possible outcomes, helping our patients return to a comfortable and healthy lifestyle.
After your surgery, it’s essential to allow adequate time for healing before resuming normal activities to prevent complications and ensure a successful recovery. The timeline for returning to your regular routine can vary based on the complexity of the surgery, your overall health, and the specific advice provided by your healthcare provider.
In most cases, we recommend taking it easy for the initial few days post-surgery. During this crucial recovery phase, rest is vital, and you should avoid strenuous activities such as heavy lifting, intense exercise, and any movements that might strain the surgical area.
Typically, you can gradually begin to resume light activities within a week or two. However, we advise waiting approximately four to six weeks before engaging in activities that require significant physical exertion, such as sports or heavy labor. During this time, it’s important to monitor for any signs of complications, such as increased pain, swelling, or infection. If you notice any concerns, please reach out to our team at Phoenix Unified Surgeonsimmediately.
Ultimately, the decision of when to fully resume normal activities should be made in consultation with your healthcare provider. We are here to support you every step of the way, taking into account your unique circumstances and the specifics of your surgical procedure. Your health and recovery are our top priorities, and we are dedicated to providing you with the highest standard of care. We are conveniently located at 20333 N 19th Avenue, Ste 230, Phoenix, AZ 85027. For more information, contact us or request an appointment online. We serve patients from Phoenix AZ, Sun City AZ, Peoria AZ, Surprise AZ, Glendale AZ, Scottsdale AZ, and surrounding areas


Additional Services You May Need
▸ Colon & Rectal Surgery
▸ Gallbladder Surgery
▸ Colonoscopy
▸ Wound Care
▸ Hernia Repair
▸ General Surgery
▸ Robotic and Minimally Invasive Surgery
▸ Appendectomy
▸ Colon Repair/Resection
▸ Lipoma & Cyst Removal
▸ Endoscopy and Colonoscopy
▸ Abdominal Pain
▸ Colon surgery for Diverticulitis
▸ Colon surgery for Colon Cancer
▸ Hemorrhoids
▸ Anal Fistulas
▸ Anal Pain Surgeries
▸ Colostomy Avoidance Surgery
▸ Fecal Incontinence Surgery
▸ Crohn’s Surgery
▸ Ulcerative Colitis Surgery