Sphincterotomy in Thibodaux, LA
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Find a ProviderWhat exactly is a sphincterotomy?
Lateral internal sphincterotomy is a procedure used to care for anal fissures. An anal fissure is a small rip in the tissue lining the anus and is accompanied by bleeding and discomfort when passing stools. The internal anal sphincter muscle is constantly under tension, but added pressure can allow anal fissures to form or prevent an existing fissure from healing. If you need a sphincterotomy in Thibodaux, LA, we can help. Reach out to a Digestive Health Center location near you to request a consultation with one of our GI providers to see if you are a candidate for a sphincterotomy.
Who is a candidate for a sphincterotomy?
This surgery is best suited for patients suffering from anal fissures. The following symptoms can be caused by anal fissures:
- Itching
- Painful bowel movements
- Bleeding
In some cases, anal fissures will resolve on their own or with the help of home treatments. Lateral internal sphincterotomy is recommended by our Thibodaux, LA providers in cases where conservative treatment measures fail to heal the fissure.
How does a sphincterotomy work?
The sphincterotomy is conducted as an outpatient procedure under local or general anesthesia. Your GI provider will create a small incision in the internal anal sphincter. The incision within the muscle reduces the pressure, thereby allowing the fissure to close. The incision is either sutured with dissolvable sutures or may be left open to heal naturally. As with any surgery, lateral internal sphincterotomy may have complications and risks, such as inability to control stool or gas, pain, bleeding, infection at the site of the incision, and trouble urinating. We encourage you to have a conversation about the risks and benefits of this procedure with your Digestive Health Center provider.
Innovative treatment for anal fissures
Anal fissures can sometimes heal on their own. But, if you have a fissure that does not seem to be healing and is failing to respond to the less invasive treatments, then you may be a candidate for a sphincterotomy. Should you have other questions about a sphincterotomy or any alternate method of treating anal fissures, we urge you to reach out to a Digestive Health Center provider. As a physician-led team of GI providers, Digestive Health Center strives to provide patient-centric treatment for GI tract concerns like anal fissures. If you are searching for a provider who specializes in sphincterotomies in Thibodaux, LA, please contact us today.
Sphincterotomy FAQs
How successful is sphincterotomy in resolving anal fissures?
Sphincterotomy proves to be a highly successful treatment for chronic anal fissures, with efficacy rates often surpassing 90%. This surgical intervention facilitates healing by lowering the tension within the anal sphincter, thereby enhancing blood circulation to the affected area. The majority of patients report considerable symptom relief and a swift improvement post-surgery, establishing sphincterotomy as a dependable solution for individuals unresponsive to non-surgical treatments.
Is hospitalization necessary after undergoing a sphincterotomy?
Sphincterotomy is commonly conducted as an outpatient procedure, eliminating the need for an overnight hospital stay. Patients are typically able to return home on the same day once the anesthesia subsides. Your physician will provide tailored advice regarding post-operative care and the timeline for recovery based on the specific details of your procedure. Recovery is usually home-based, with most individuals returning to regular activities shortly, though complete healing may require several weeks.
What pain management methods can be expected following a sphincterotomy?
Effective pain management is critical after undergoing a sphincterotomy. Physicians generally prescribe pain relievers to mitigate any discomfort experienced after the surgery. Sitz baths, which involve soaking the perineal area in warm water, are also frequently recommended to aid in pain relief and facilitate the healing process. Adhering to your doctor's instructions for pain management is vital to ensure a comfortable and effective recovery period.
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