What is fissure?

Untreated anal fissures can become chronic if left untreated. Schedule a doctor's appointment if you notice an anal fissure.Anal fissures that recur can indicate a more serious problem.

For the most part, anal fissure surgeries are successful, and the patient is satisfied. However, like any other surgery, there could be potential complications during the surgical process. Some of the complications and contradictions that can occur can include:

• Bleeding: Although very rare to occur, there is a possibility of haemorrhage or bleeding during the surgery of an anal fissure
• Incontinence: Several patients report suffering from temporary incontinence immediately after the surgery. The problem is not likely to remain for more than 2-3 weeks and can remain until the patient recovers completely.
• Perianal abscess: Though the complication is not very common, some people have suffered from an abscess and also developed an anal fistula after the surgery of an anal fissure.
• Tear extending to the surrounding muscle: Damage to the anal sphincter or surrounding muscle or nerves can be due to direct thermal or mechanical trauma, and some infections develop later.

There are some treatments outside of laser surgery that may provide relief from anal fissures. Lifestyle changes: Making lifestyle changes like exercising, consuming a high fiber diet, and drinking adequate water can be your first line of defense against anal fissures.

• Fiber supplements: Anal fissures can get worse due to hard and dry stools, but a high fiber intake can help with regular bowel movements. In addition to consuming foods like oat bran, beans, nuts, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, you can consult your doctor for fiber supplements.Non-surgical Options: Before recommending surgical treatments, the doctor will treat the anal fissure through non-surgical options. Topical creams like nitroglycerine (to promote healing), local anaesthetics like lidocaine (to prevent pain), and corticosteroids like hydrocortisone (to reduce inflammation and irritation)
• Oral blood pressure medications like nifedipine and diltiazem can enhance blood pressure and give relief to the anal sphincter muscle.
• Stool softeners can improve your hard stools leading to smoother bowel movement and lesser strain on the anal region.
• Botox injections can help eliminate the spasm of the internal anal sphincter providing relief from the spasm.

Surgical Options: Lateral Internal Sphinterectomy (LIS) is a type of surgical option for anal fissures which involves cutting a small portion of the anal sphincter muscle to help reduce spasms and pain and promote healing. This surgical route is taken when a fissure does not respond to medications and other treatments.