Specialist Clinic for Anal Fistula and Abscess
From risk assessments and pain management, to diagnostics and personalised anal fistula treatments, Colorectal Practice offers them all under one roof.
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What Are Anal Abscess and Anal Fistula?
An anal abscess is a painful, pus-filled collection that forms near the anus. It typically arises from an infection within the anal glands, which are small glands located just inside the anal canal. When these glands become blocked, bacteria can accumulate, leading to infection and the formation of an abscess.
An anal fistula, on the other hand, is an abnormal tract that forms between the skin near the anus and the anal canal. It is usually the result of an anal gland that developed a pus-filled infection (anal abscess) and did not heal properly. Anal fistulas do not heal on their own and typically require surgery. The specific surgical approach depends on the type and complexity of the fistula.
Might I Have an Anal Fistula?
While it is best to get an assessment done by an anal fistula surgeon, here are some signs and symptoms that you should look out for:
- Pain in the anus and rectum
- Fever and chills
- Irritation of the skin around the anus
- Drainage (pus, blood, stool) from the skin around the anus
Types of Anal Fistula
Anal fistulas are classified based on their location relative to the surrounding anal sphincter muscles. Common types of anal fistula include:
Intersphincteric Fistula
Passes through both the internal and external sphincter muscles
Transsphincteric Fistula
Passes between the internal and external sphincter muscles
Suprasphincteric Fistula
Passes through the internal sphincter and upwards, above the external sphincter muscle
Extrasphincteric Fistula
Originates from outside the sphincter muscles and may extend to other organs
I’m Diagnosed With an Anal Fistula. What’s Next?
While anal fistulas are not dangerous, they can be extremely painful; making pain management an integral part of your healing process.
Depending on the complexity and severity of the anal fistula, various treatment methods (whether surgical or non-surgical) will be recommended.
Complete recovery of the anal fistula is key to preventing recurrence and chronicity of the condition. Follow our care team’s advice so as to facilitate the healing process.
Dr Dennis Koh
Medical Director & Senior Consultant Surgeon
B Med Sci (Nottingham), MBBS (Nottingham)
MMed (Surgery), FRCS (Edinburgh), FAMS
Dr Dennis Koh is an MOH-accredited and experienced colorectal surgeon skilled in anal fistula treatment; and currently the Medical Director at Colorectal Practice.
Dr Koh strives to provide a customized treatment plan for each patient, which allows for better outcomes. He also honed his skills in proctology abRd in Geneva, bringing a more diverse touch to his practice.
Dr Sharon Koh Zhiling
Senior Consultant Surgeon
MBBS (Singapore), MMed (Surgery),
FRCS (Edinburgh), FAMS
Dr Sharon Koh is an experienced colorectal surgeon and the former Director of Endoscopy at Alexandra Health.
Dr Koh completed her fellowship at Cedars-Sinai Medical Centre in the US after being awarded the Academic Medicine Development Award by the National University Hospital.
Dr Pauleon Tan Enjiu
Senior Consultant Surgeon
MBBS (Singapore), MMed (Surgery),
FRCS (Edinburgh), FACS
Dr Pauleon Tan has served in public hospitals for over 15 years and is experienced in minimally invasive surgery and endoscopy.
Dr Tan undertook advanced colorectal surgical training at Japan’s Saitama International Medical Center after being awarded the Ministry of Health – Health Manpower Development Plan (HMDP) Award.