VAAFT (Video-Assisted Anal Fistula Treatment)
An endoscopic technique that allows direct visualisation of the fistula tract - enabling precise debridement and closure under direct vision with complete sphincter preservation.
What is VAAFT (Video-Assisted Anal Fistula Treatment)?
VAAFT is a two-stage endoscopic technique for anal fistulas. In the diagnostic phase, a fistuloscope is inserted into the external fistula opening - providing direct visualisation of the entire tract including secondary branches, internal openings, and cavities. In the operative phase, the tract is debrided, coagulated, and the internal opening closed under direct endoscopic vision. Dr. Samhitha Reddy offers VAAFT at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad for complex, branching, or recurrent fistulas where standard surgery has failed or precise tract characterisation is needed. As part of the Hyderabad fistula laser surgery programme, VAAFT's visualisation capability ensures all secondary branches are treated - improving outcomes for previously difficult fistulas.
How the Procedure Works
Fistuloscope Insertion
A 3.3 mm fistuloscope is inserted through the external opening under irrigation - providing clear, magnified visualisation of the tract.
Diagnostic Phase
The entire fistula tract is visualised - all secondary tracts, cavities, and the precise location of the internal opening are mapped under direct endoscopic vision.
Tract Debridement
A monopolar electrode and brush debride and destroy the fistula epithelium from within the tract under direct vision.
Internal Opening Closure
The internal opening is closed using a stapler (VAAFT-S) or suture technique under direct endoscopic guidance.
External Opening Management
The external opening is left open to drain. Regular dressings and follow-up assessment of closure at 6 and 12 weeks.
Outcomes
Who Needs This Treatment?
- →Direct endoscopic visualisation of the entire fistula tract - no blind dissection
- →All secondary branches and cavities identified and treated simultaneously
- →Sphincter completely preserved - no risk of incontinence from sphincter division
- →Minimally invasive - no large external wounds
- →Particularly valuable for complex, multi-branching, or previously failed fistula surgery
- →Diagnostic and therapeutic in a single procedure - reduces the need for staged operations
VAAFT brings the full power of endoscopic technology to fistula surgery. Seeing the entire tract in real time - every branch, every cavity - and being able to treat it all under direct vision is a significant advantage for complex fistulas that have eluded conventional surgery.
— - Dr. Samhitha Reddy, Consultant Proctologist & Laparoscopic Surgeon
Common Questions
Frequently Asked
Not sure which treatment is right for you?
Book a consultation with Dr. Samhitha Reddy and get a personalised treatment plan.