What exactly is a sphincterotomy?
Lateral internal sphincterotomy is a surgical procedure carried out to address anal fissures. An anal fissure is a small rip in the tissue lining one’s anus and can be associated with bleeding and discomfort during bowel movements. The internal anal sphincter muscle is always under tension; however, an increase in pressure could cause the development of anal fissures or prevent an existing fissure from healing. If you are seeking a provider who offers sphincterotomies in Washington, our team can help. Consult Washington Gastroenterology to request a consultation with one of our local GI providers to have all your questions answered.
Who should get a sphincterotomy?
This surgical treatment may benefit those dealing with anal fissures. Anal fissures can manifest with the following symptoms:
- Pain with bowel movements
- Bleeding
- Itching
Many anal fissures can resolve on their own or in combination with at-home therapies. A lateral internal sphincterotomy is indicated in cases where conservative treatment measures are unsuccessful in healing the fissure.
How is a sphinceterotomy performed?
Our Washington specialists perform a sphincterotomy on an outpatient basis under general or local anesthesia. Your GI provider will make a small incision in the internal anal sphincter. The incision in the muscle lowers the pressure, giving the fissure an opportunity to close. The incision will then either be stitched with dissolvable sutures or may be allowed to remain open to heal naturally. As with any surgical procedure, lateral internal sphincterotomy might encompass risks and complications, for example, incontinence of gas or stool, bleeding, pain, infection at the incision site, and trouble with passing urine. We encourage you to discuss this treatment’s complete list of possible benefits and risks with your Washington Gastroenterology gastroenterologist.
Healing is possible for anal fissures
Anal fissures may heal on their own. But, if you suffer from an anal fissure for which this is not the case and which is not responding to the less advanced treatment efforts, a sphincterotomy might be able to help. Should you have additional questions regarding the sphincterotomy or any alternative treatment method for anal fissures, we ask that you reach out to us. As a physician-led team of gastroenterology providers, Washington Gastroenterology aims to provide patient-centered treatment for gastroenterology conditions such as anal fissures. If you are searching for a provider who performs sphincterotomies in Washington, please request a consultation with us today.
Sphincterotomy FAQs
How effective is sphincterotomy in treating anal fissures?
Sphincterotomy is a highly effective treatment for chronic anal fissures, with success rates generally exceeding 90%. This surgical procedure alleviates pain and promotes healing by reducing tension in the anal sphincter, which enhances blood flow to the affected area. Most patients experience substantial symptom relief and a swift improvement in their condition after the procedure, making it a reliable choice for those who have not found relief with conservative treatments.
Will I need to stay in the hospital after a sphincterotomy?
Typically, sphincterotomy is performed as an outpatient procedure, so staying overnight in the hospital is usually unnecessary. Most patients can return home the same day once the effects of any sedation have worn off. Your doctor will provide specific post-procedure instructions tailored to your individual case and the complexity of the surgery. Recovery can generally be managed at home, and you can typically resume normal activities within a few days. However, complete healing may take a few weeks.
What should I expect in terms of pain management after a sphincterotomy?
After undergoing a sphincterotomy, effectively managing pain is crucial during the recovery phase. Your doctor will typically prescribe pain medication to help alleviate any discomfort following the procedure. Additionally, sitz baths, which involve soaking the perineal area in warm water, are often recommended to provide relief and aid in healing. Following your doctor’s instructions on pain management closely is essential to ensure a comfortable and successful recovery process.