Fistula is a painful and distressing condition that affects many individuals worldwide. It is an abnormal connection between two organs or tissues in the body, resulting in the leakage of bodily fluids or waste. Fistula occurs in various parts of the body, including the rectum, vagina, urinary tract, and skin

Types of Fistulas

There are several types of fistulas, including:

• Anal Fistula: The most common type of fistula is an anal fistula, which affects around 1 in 500 people. An abnormal connection forms a tunnel between the anal canal and the skin around the anus. This tunnel is the result of an infection, injury, or inflammation in the anal or rectal area. The tunnel or channel is painful and cause discomfort, irritation, and discharge of pus or blood. Anal fistula is a chronic condition that worsen over time if left untreated
• Vesicovaginal Fistula: The opening formed between the urinary bladder and vagina. This type of fistula causes urine to leak uncontrollably from the bladder into the vagina, leading to various complications such as urinary tract infections and irritation.
• Rectovaginal Fistula: RVF medical condition forms an opening develops between the rectum and the vagina. This condition causes faeces to leak uncontrollably from the rectum into the vagina, leading to various complications such as inflammation.
• Enterocutaneous Fistula: Fistula developed between the intestine and the skin on the abdominal wall. This causes the contents of the intestine, including food, digestive juices, and faeces, to leak out of the body

Diagnosis of Fistula

To diagnose, the doctor need to determine its cause for deciding the appropriate treatment. There are chances that cancer and treatment also causes fistula. Patient’s medical history will be examined along with their symptoms. In some cases, the patient require additional tests to diagnose the condition.

Patients who is concerned about having an internal examination, should let their doctor know.. There are a various tests conducted to diagnose a fistula.

1. Methylene blue test identify a fistula between the vagina and bowel. During the test, a tampon is placed in the vagina and blue dye is inserted into the rectum.
2. CT scan creates a 3D image of the body’s interior using x-rays. A special dye gets administered before the scan to enhance the clarity of the images.
3. An MRI scan uses magnetism to create detailed images.
4. Contrast X-rays also available and use liquid dye to make abnormalities more visible on x-ray images.

Fistula Treatment in India

Fistula surgery is the most effective treatment in India. The surgery procedure involves creating an incision to drain the pus and fluid from the fistula and then sealing the tract to prevent further infection.

The cost of fistula surgery in India is usually lower than that of in other countries.

Type of Fistula Surgery

The most common types of fistula surgery are fistulotomy, fistulectomy, and seton placement. Fistulotomy is the most straightforward and least expensive surgery, while seton placement is the most complex and expensive.

In easy and simple words,

Open surgery is a traditional method that involves making a large incision to remove the fistula tract. This surgery requires more recovery time and has a higher risk of complications. On the other hand, minimally invasive surgery is a newer technique that involves making small incisions to remove the fistula tract. This surgery has a shorter recovery time and a lower risk of complications. However, it is more expensive than open surgery.

Fistula Surgery Cost in India: Factors to Consider

The cost of fistula surgery in India varies depending on several factors. Here are some of the main factors that affect the cost of surgery:

Hospital Charges

Some hospitals charge more than others, depending on their reputation and facilities. Patients may have to pay a higher cost if they choose a more prestigious hospital.

Surgeon’s Fees

The surgeon’s fees also contribute to the cost of fistula surgery. Experienced surgeons charge more than new surgeons, and their fees may vary depending on their qualifications, expertise, and reputation.

Location of the Hospital

Hospitals in metropolitan cities like Delhi and Mumbai charge more than hospitals in smaller towns and cities.

Fistula Surgery Cost in India: Average Cost

The cost of fistula surgery in India ranges from INR 50,000 to INR 2,50,000, depending on the factors mentioned above. The average cost of fistula surgery in India is around INR 90,000.

Patients who cannot afford the high cost of healthcare in their home country consider traveling to India for treatment. India is known for its affordable healthcare, and fistula surgery is no exception. Patients from all over the world travel to India for fistula surgery because of the lower cost of treatment.

Treatment with Diet

A diet that is high in fiber help prevent constipation, which is a common cause of anal fistula. Constipation leads to straining during bowel movements, which causes the anal canal to tear and form a fistula.

Here are some dietary tips for patients with fistula:

• Eat more fruits and vegetables
• Drink plenty of water
• Avoid processed foods
• Avoid spicy and oily foods

Eat smaller, more frequent meals: Eating smaller, more frequent meals can help regulate bowel movements and prevent constipation. It can also help reduce inflammation in the digestive system.

You can get a second opinion from one of the best fistula surgeon in India before going for surgery.