VAAFT is a new minimally invasive technique for the treatment of complex anal fistulas and their recurrences. Pain is minimal, there is no wound in the perianal area and risk of faecal incontinence is avoided because no sphincter damage occurs.
PROCEDURE
Under spinal anaesthesia, the fistuloscope is inserted through the external fistula opening. The whole tract is visualized upto the internal opening, including side tracts, if any. Any blocking tissue is removed. The internal opening is then closed using a stapler or cutaneous-mucosal flap and the entire path of fistula is destroyed by electrocautery under direct telescopic vision. A cyanoacrylate glue/fibrin is injected inside the fistula to doubly ensure closure of the internal opening and the whole fistula.
DURATION
The procedure takes 1 to 2 hours.
VAAFT is a day care / one day hospital stay procedure.
RECOVERY
Patient can resume routine work the next day.
The wound would heal in few weeks.
RISKS
- Pain
- Recurrence