Schedule Call Us Text Us

1.9K Reviews | 4.7 Star Rating | 20+ years of experience | 72k+ Patients Treated

Best Perianal Fistula Doctor - Dr. Bharat Pothuri

The painful tunnels of the anal canvas occurring between the skin and anal canal result after an infected anal gland. They lead to recurrent infections in case they are not treated. Dr. GastroDoxs in Houston, where Bharat Pothuri will be your diagnosis and treatment, is being done with complete expertise and care according to your needs.

Call Us 832-632-4070 Schedule Now Click Here Text Us 832-632-4070 Learn More Click Here

Difficulty Swallowing

American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

About the Expert

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a board-certified gastroenterologist and the founder of GastroDoxs. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

Small anal glands become infected.
Crohn disease or other inflammatory bowel disorder that is long term in nature.
Past surgery or trauma of the anorectum.
Uncommon infections (e.g., actinomycosis, tuberculosis, etc.).
Diverticulitis complications (in rare incidences).
Smoking or diabetes as these may make normal healing inhibit.

Signs and Symptoms

Constant pain or discomfort of the area around the anus, pain intensified by sitting.
Hemorrhage, heat, or swelling/tenderness at the rectal anus.
Leakage of pus or blood into a small opening.
Repeat of perineal abscesses in the area.
Fever, chills, or general malaise in case of extension of infection.

Expert Treatment for Perianal Fistula by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

Dr. Pothuri uses a step-by-step approach:

Medical History and Exam

He evaluates your background of anal sores, previous operations or injuries, and examines such ailments as Crohn disease.

Physical Examination

He examines the perineal area including the area around the anus, whether or not it has external openings, swelling, or any evidence of drainage.

Imaging Studies

Pelvic MRI -locates the entire fistula tract and defines abscesses.
Endoanal Ultrasound- gives an improved photo of the sphincter muscles and concealed tunnels.

Colonoscopy (If Indicated)

Routine done in the suspicion of inflammatory bowel disease, to rule out Crohn's or other causes of colonic disease.

Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for perianal fistulas.

1. Diet and Lifestyle Modifications

Enhance fruit, vegetable and whole grain intake of food.
Drink between six and eight glasses of water in a day in order to heal.
Add the mild exercise or slow walking to enhance circulation.

2. Medications

Antibiotics to prevent or treat fistula tract infection.
Anti-inflammatory medication to deal with related bowel diseases such as Crohn disease.
Complex fistulas or fistulas associated with Crohn Biologic treatment.

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

Seton dressing to permit uninterrupted drainage and slow healing.
To open the tunnel inside out by the use of fistulotomy.
LIFT Procedure (Ligation of Intersphincteric Fistula Tract) to repair the fistula with the intention of retaining muscle.
Laser surgery in the case of specific closure with less postoperative pain and shorter recovery time.

Call Us 832-632-4070 Schedule Now Click Here Text Us 832-632-4070

1.5K

Patients Treated

Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 1.5K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.

20Y

Years of Experience

With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients

About the Author

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a perianal fistula?

A perianal fistula is a small hole between the anal canal and skin around the anus, which occurs most commonly when an infected anal gland empties at the surface.

What causes a perianal fistula?

Majority of the fistulas begin with the infection to the anal gland. Crohn disease, previous anal surgery or injury, tuberculosis, diverticulitis, smoking, and diabetes are also other risk factors.

How long is recovery after treatment?

Recovery normally needs four to six weeks but heals depending on the complexity of the fistula and the procedure sought.

Can a perianal fistula be treated if I have Crohn's disease?

Yes. Dr. Pothuri takes a combination of medical treatment (antibiotics, biologics) and minimally-invasive surgeries to treat Crohn-related fistulas.

When should I see a doctor about symptoms?

In the case of persistent pain, swelling in and near the anus-or a stress of recurring abscesses-design medical care as soon as possible.

Is treatment painful?

Majority of patients develop mild discomfort, which is treated by pain drugs. The current methods such as laser surgery and the LIFT process reduce the pain and accelerate healing.

Related Blogs