Causes 

Fistulas occur by the presence of an abscess (encapsulated accumulation of pus). Based on this abscess fistula tract(s) develop themselves because the purulent fluid is searching for another way out of the system. These tracts consist of inner foramina near the proctodeal glands in the anal canal. The fistula has a main tract from which branches can diverge (which can also end blindly). On the outer skin one or more openings can be found. 

Fistulae continually produce a purulent secretion, which can sometimes be also muddy or bloody. Most of those affected also suffer from recurrent and intense itching. The itch arises because of eczemas which can be appearing out of the secretion. Accidental winds can be an unpleasant side effect. Also thin stool can leak through these foramina.

Conventional therapy

Fistulas must be surgically splitted, ideally by an experienced specialist, the proctologist. Usually the entire fistula tract is cut open and excised in order for restructuring. This cut is supposed to heal over the next days and weeks from the inside to the outside. During this period a continuous check of wound healing is required. The wound must be cleaned constantly in order to prevent infection. 

Under certain circumstances there is an alternative option of applying drainage to the anal fistula. Often a combination is necessary if the fistula crosses the anal muscle completely and if there is a direct connection to the rectum. The more muscle tissue to be  splitted the greater the risk of incontinence.

Laser therapy

FiLaC - (Fistula-tract Laser Closure) – Our solution for a minimal-invasive approach

The aim is to gently remove the fistula tract without damaging the sphincter. Thus, any parts of the muscle are preserved to a maximum and incontinence is avoided.

Advantages: 

• Maximal preservation of the muscle – preservation of continence
• Good control
• Independent on the length of the fistula tract
• Flexible fiber also allows use in convoluted tract
• Can be executed in only a few minutes
• Can be combined with other forms of therapy for closing the osteum

In order to eliminate the fistula tract as gently as possible, defined energy is being emitted radially into the fistula tract by using a novel fiber. The epithelialized tissue is being destroyed in a controlled way and the fistula tract collapses. This also supports and accelerates the healing process.

FiLaC