Dr. Samhitha Reddy
Consultant Proctologist & Laparoscopic Surgeon
MBBS, MS, FMAS, FISCP, DMAS
- 8 Yrs
- ASCRS Member
Anal fistula: what causes the tunnel to form
Medically reviewed by
Dr. Samhitha Reddy, MS, FISCPConsultant Proctologist & Laparoscopic Surgeon
Last reviewed · 8 min read
A fistula is a small tunnel connecting an infected gland inside the anal canal to the skin outside. It almost always begins as an abscess.
Once the tunnel is lined, the body cannot close it by itself, which is why fistulas recur until they are treated properly.
Dr. Samhitha Reddy
Consultant Proctologist & Laparoscopic Surgeon
MBBS, MS, FMAS, FISCP, DMAS
8 YrsASCRS Member
Book AppointmentView Profile →How a fistula forms
1
A gland becomes blocked
Small glands inside the anal canal can block and then become infected.
2
An abscess develops
The infection collects as a painful swelling, often with fever.
3
The abscess finds a way out
Pus tracks to the skin surface. Once it drains, the pain settles — but the track remains.
Important
A fistula that keeps discharging needs surgical assessment. Antibiotics alone treat the infection, not the tunnel.
Speak to the proctology team
Daycare procedures, cashless insurance, and consultations seven days a week at Gachibowli.
Frequently asked questions
Will a fistula heal without surgery?
Very rarely. The track is lined with tissue that prevents it closing, so definitive treatment is usually surgical.
Is there a risk to continence?
The muscle involved determines the technique chosen. Modern sphincter-preserving options exist precisely to protect continence, and your surgeon will explain which applies.
Still unsure what is causing your symptoms?
A short consultation with a Lux proctology specialist can tell you what you are dealing with — and what, if anything, needs treating.
Gachibowli, Hyderabad · Seven days a week · Cashless insurance accepted
Sources & references
Published · Last reviewed · Next review due March 2027
This article is published for general education. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace an in-person consultation. If you are worried about a symptom, please speak to a qualified doctor.
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