An anal abscess results when a small gland just inside the anus becomes infected from bacteria or stool trapped in the gland. You will experience intense anal pain and swelling. An anal abscess is treated by draining the pus through an opening made in the skin near the anus. An anal fistula usually develops in about 30-50 percent of all anal abscess cases. After an abscess has been drained, a passage may remain between the anal gland and the skin, resulting in a fistula. If the gland does not heal, there will be persistent drainage through this passage. If the outside opening of the fistula heals first, a recurrent abscess may develop. A fistulotomy is a surgical procedure to treat an anal fistula. During the surgery, the passage is opened, merging the fistula with the anal canal. The tissue is then given a chance to heal after the pus is drained. Listed below you will find local gastroenterologists around Baltimore that can explain more about this colorectal surgery procedure.

An anal fistula is an abnormal channel or tunnel-like lesion that starts inside the anus and ends outside on the skin of the buttocks. Its development is usually the result of a previous anal infection or abscess.