What does a fistula look like after surgery?

After fistula creation, you may notice a bulge in your arm. This is the enlarged vein that results from blood flowing from the high pressure/ high flow artery into the low pressure/low flow vein. You may notice ink on your arm after your fistula creation procedure that were placed by your physician.

How does fistula look like?

An anorectal or anal fistula is an abnormal, infected, tunnel-like passageway that forms from an infected anal gland. Sometimes an anal fistula works its way from an internal gland to the outside of the skin surrounding the anus. On the skin, this looks like an open boil.

How long does it take to recover from fistula surgery?

Most people can go back to work and their normal routine 1 to 2 weeks after surgery. It will probably take several weeks to several months for your fistula to completely heal. This depends on the size of your fistula and how much surgery you had.

How do you clean a fistula after surgery?

Washing

1. use warm water and cotton wool to wash the skin, rather than a towel or sponge ‐ pat the skin dry rather than rubbing it, or use a hairdryer on a low setting.
2. avoid perfumed products and talcum powder as these can irritate the skin around the fistula.

Why do fistulas get so big?

An AV fistula causes extra pressure and extra blood to flow into the vein, making it grow large and strong. The larger vein provides easy, reliable access to blood vessels.

What are the side effects of fistula surgery?

Possible complications associated with fistula repair procedures include:

• Bowel blockage (obstruction)
• Infection.
• Fistula recurrence.
• Losing some control of your bowels (incontinence)

Is pus normal after fistula surgery?

If the outer hole of the fistula closes, it may create a swollen, pus-filled, painful abscess. Fistulas often happen following surgery on the anus or rectum. An infection that forms an abscess may also lead to a fistula, especially after surgery.

Do fistulas smell?

The genital area may also become sore or infected and there may be pain during intercourse. Women with a rectovaginal fistula, or a leak between the rectum and vagina, may include the passage of foul-smelling gas, stool or pus from the vagina, as well as pain during intercourse.

Can I live with fistula?

Although fistulas are associated with IBD, they can occur several years before the condition is diagnosed. While rarely life-threatening, fistulas can decrease people’s quality of life and often need combined medical and surgical treatment.