1.9K Reviews | 4.7 Star Rating | 20+ years of experience | 72k+ Patients Treated
Perianal Fistula Doctor - Dr. Scott Liu
Dr. Scott provides specialist perianal fistula care at GastroDoxs in Houston, which includes his personalized diagnosis, advanced techniques to treat fistula including seton placement, fistulotomy and providing lifestyle guidance. Dr. Scott has been practicing over years and communicating with patients on the personal level to provide effective relief and healing.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Blocked anal glands or prior abscess formation
Crohn's disease (chronic inflammation of the digestive tract)
Diabetes or other conditions that weaken immunity
Previous surgery, injury, or radiation in the rectal area
Signs and Symptoms
Pain, tenderness, or swelling around the anus
Red, sore skin near the fistula opening
Pus or blood discharge from a small lump
Fever, chills, or general malaise if infection is present
Itching, irritation, or difficulty with hygiene
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses Perianal Fistula?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Risk Assessment
He examines your past surgeries, Crohn bowel problems or any other inflammatory bowel problems, previous surgeries, diabetes or immunosuppression and other symptoms involved (pain and swelling and drainage).
Physical Examination
A tender examination and palpation in the anal edge to detect external opening, tenderness, induration, or fluctuance, sphincter tone.
Imaging Studies
Endoanal ultrasound to delineate superficial fistula tracts and track their relationship to sphincter muscles.
Complex or high fistulas Central extension Well-differentiated secondary extensions are mapped with great detail using pelvic MRI that gives rich information about soft tissue.
Fistula Mapping or Contrast Studies (if needed)
In isolated instances, probe mapping under local anesthesia or fistulography using contrast would aid in mapping the precise pathway of the tunnel prior to surgery.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for perianal fistula.
Lifestyle and Diet Tips
Take more water and consume more fiber to facilitate bowel movements.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cause of a perianal fistula?
The majority of fistulas develop out of abscess in the anal glands. Risk is also increased by chronic inflammation such as that of Crohn disease, diabetes, or injury of the rectal area.
How is a fistula diagnosed?
Physical examination by Dr. Scott, and image-MRI or before deciding on treatment; endoanal ultrasound- to map the tract.
What is a seton?
A seton refers to soft surgical thread that is inserted along the fistula tract. It maintains openness of the tunnel to drain and heal and minimising the risk of infection.
What are the treatment options available to me?
The options of treatment are lifestyle and diet change, antibiotics, and sitz baths, as well as less invasive treatment options such as seton placement, fistulotomy, or LIFT.
How long does recovery take?
The majority of the patients recover in 4-6 weeks. Healing wounds well, consuming high-fiber foods, hydrating and avoiding activities that strain are a few of the ways to hasten the recovery process.
Does it have any insurance coverage?
Yes. In the majority of bigger insurance plans, perianal fistula care is included. We will confirm your advantages and take you through the process.
