Anal fistulas are the pesky abnormal tunnels that connect the anus to the skin. However, anal fistulas can cause discomfort and frustration. Fortunately, medical advancements have introduced innovative treatment options that go beyond traditional surgery. One treatment garnering popularity in Singapore is the LIFT procedure – Ligation of the Intersphincteric Fistula Tract (LIFT) procedure.
Understanding the LIFT Procedure
The LIFT procedure is a minimally invasive surgical technique specifically designed to treat anal fistulas. Generally, traditional fistulotomy involves cutting through sphincter muscles. But LIFT preserves these muscles as much as possible. Please learn a breakdown of the process:
- Anesthesia –Typically, general or spinal anesthesia is used for the patient’s comfort.
- Fistula Identification – A specialized tool helps the surgeon locate the specific path of the fistula tract.
- Ligature Placement – The anal fistula surgery includes the placement of a absorbable stitch around the internal opening of the fistula tract, essentially by tying it off.
- Wound Closure – If there are any minor incisions made during the procedure, they will be closed with stitches.
Why Choose LIFT for Anal Fistula Treatment in Singapore?
When compared to traditional surgery, LIFT offers several advantages:
- Minimally Invasive – The procedure is less invasive which results in faster healing times and reduced post-operative pain.
- Reduced Incontinence Risk – Preserving the sphincter muscles reduces the risk of fecal incontinence, which is a potential complication of traditional methods.
- Shorter Recovery – Patients often experience faster recovery with the LIFT procedure than with open surgery.
- Outpatient Procedure – In many circumstances, LIFT can be performed as an outpatient procedure and allows patients to return home on the same day.
Is LIFT Right for You?
The suitability of the LIFT procedure depends on the certain characteristics of your anal fistula. Here’s where consulting a colorectal surgeon in Singapore becomes essential. They can assess the individual situation and determine whether the LIFT procedure is the most appropriate treatment option. The factors you need to consider may include:
- Fistula Complexity – Patients with simple, low anal fistulas are eligible for LIFT.
- Anal Sphincter Involvement – The location and severity of sphincter muscle involvement are significant in treatment selection.
- Previous Surgeries – Prior surgeries in the anal region may greatly impact the suitability of LIFT.
Conclusion
The LIFT procedure offers a promising alternative for anal fistulectomy in Singapore. Its minimally invasive nature and focus on sphincter preservation make it ideal for many patients. If you’re experiencing anal fistula symptoms, you should consult a qualified colorectal surgeon.
You should discuss your treatment options, including the potential benefits of LIFT. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential for a successful outcome and regaining your quality of life much faster.