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.
VAAFT is available at selected specialist centres with fistuloscopy equipment. It is particularly valuable for complex, multi-branching, or recurrent fistulas. Dr. Samhitha will advise whether VAAFT is the most appropriate technique at consultation.
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, Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
VAAFT Cost in Hyderabad
The cost of VAAFT (Video-Assisted Anal Fistula Treatment) in Hyderabad depends on the complexity of the fistula, whether it is recurrent, investigations required, surgical technique, and the care needed before and after the procedure.
For conditions such as complex or recurrent anal fistula, where VAAFT may be considered, the approximate cost ranges between ₹70,000 and ₹1,40,000.
| Procedure | Approximate Cost Range |
|---|---|
| VAAFT (Video-Assisted Anal Fistula Treatment) Complex / Recurrent Fistula | ₹70,000 – ₹1,40,000 |
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 VAAFT Cost
The overall cost may depend on:
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Type and complexity of fistula: Complex or recurrent fistulas, multiple tracts, and the location of the internal opening can influence the difficulty of treatment and overall 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 procedures such as abscess drainage, seton placement, fistula mapping, or other anorectal treatments are required along with VAAFT, 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 VAAFT Covered by Insurance?
VAAFT 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 VAAFT 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.