Fistulectomy
Complete surgical excision of the entire anal fistula tract - providing a definitive tissue specimen for histological examination while eliminating the fistula. Appropriate for simple accessible fistulas at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
What is Fistulectomy?
Fistulectomy involves the complete surgical excision of the entire fistula tract - including both internal and external openings and all intervening tissue. Unlike fistulotomy (which lays the tract open), fistulectomy physically removes the entire tract and sends it for histological examination. This is particularly important when tuberculosis, Crohn's disease, or malignancy is suspected as the underlying cause.
Dr. Samhitha Reddy performs fistulectomy at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad for simple and superficial fistulas where complete excision is feasible without significant sphincter sacrifice. As part of the comprehensive anal fistula treatment in Hyderabad programme, all specimens are examined by pathology - ensuring no underlying condition is missed.
Fistulectomy is appropriate for simple, superficial, or intersphincteric fistulas. For high fistulas with significant sphincter involvement, sphincter-preserving techniques (LIFT, FiLaC) are preferred to avoid incontinence risk.
How the Procedure Works
Pre-operative Assessment
Endoanal ultrasound maps the fistula tract and its relationship with the sphincter complex before surgery is planned.
Core Excision
Under anaesthesia, a probe is passed through the fistula. An elliptical excision removes both openings and the entire tract as a core cylinder of tissue.
Sphincter Assessment
The divided tissue is examined. Minimal additional division is made only if required for adequate excision while preserving continence.
Histopathology
The entire excised specimen is sent for histological examination - critical for identifying tuberculosis, Crohn's disease, or malignancy.
Wound Management
The excision wound is left open to heal by secondary intention. Daily dressings and sitz baths for 4–6 weeks. Regular follow-up with Dr. Samhitha.
Outcomes
Who Needs This Treatment?
- →Complete tract removal - eliminates all fistula epithelium that could lead to recurrence
- →Histological specimen available - essential for diagnosing TB, Crohn's, or malignancy
- →Higher confidence in complete excision compared to fistulotomy
- →Definitive single-stage procedure for simple low fistulas
- →Day-care procedure - no extended hospital admission
- →Effective for fistulas associated with prior abscess or recurrent infection
Fistulectomy is my preferred approach when we need both definitive treatment and tissue for pathology. Sending the entire tract for histology has on several occasions revealed an underlying diagnosis that changed the patient's long-term management.
— Dr. Samhitha Reddy, Consultant Proctologist & Laparoscopic Surgeon, Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
Fistulectomy Cost in Hyderabad
The cost of fistulectomy in Hyderabad depends on the type of fistula, complexity of the tract, extent of tissue involved, investigations required, and the care needed before and after surgery.
For conditions such as low and simple anal fistula, where fistulectomy may be recommended, the approximate cost ranges between ₹35,000 and ₹70,000.
| Procedure | Approximate Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Fistulectomy Low, Simple Tract | ₹35,000 – ₹70,000 |
The final cost may vary depending on your individual condition, fistula tract characteristics, findings during evaluation, and whether any additional procedures or post-operative care are required.
Factors That Influence Fistulectomy Cost
The overall cost may depend on:
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Type and complexity of fistula: The location, length, and complexity of the fistula tract can influence the surgical approach and overall treatment cost.
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Pre-operative evaluation: Required investigations, clinical examination, imaging tests, and medical assessments before surgery may affect the overall cost.
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Additional procedures: If treatment for associated conditions such as abscess, multiple fistula tracts, or other anorectal problems is required during surgery, the cost may vary.
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Hospital stay and post-operative care: The duration of admission, medicines, wound care, follow-up consultations, and recovery requirements may influence the final estimate.
Is Fistulectomy Covered by Insurance?
Fistulectomy may be covered by health insurance when it is performed for a medically necessary condition. Coverage depends on your insurance policy, inclusions, waiting periods, and approval process.
Our insurance support team can assist you with checking your policy coverage, required documentation, cashless approval process, and insurance-related queries before the procedure.
- Checking your policy coverage
- Cashless approval process
- Required documentation
- Insurance-related queries before the procedure
Dr. Samhitha Reddy
Consultant Proctologist & Laparoscopic Surgeon
During consultation, Dr. Samhitha Reddy, Proctologist and Colorectal Surgeon in Hyderabad, will evaluate your symptoms, fistula type, medical history, and examination findings to determine whether fistulectomy is suitable for you. She will explain the procedure, expected recovery, and guide you regarding the estimated cost based on your individual condition and treatment requirements.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Not sure which treatment is right for you?
Book a consultation with Dr. Samhitha Reddy and get a personalised treatment plan.