What happens During Surgery?
The operation is performed under a general anaesthetic but various anaesthetic techniques are possible. The operation usually takes 15 to 30 minutes.
The type of surgery you need will depend on where the fistula is.
How long will I stay in hospital?
A fistulotomy is a day surgery and you can return home on the same day.
What is my recovery time?
You should rest for a few days, walking as little as possible, to help your wound to heal.
You should be able to return to work as soon as you can move about and sit freely.
The wound often takes several weeks to heal completely.
Most people make a full recovery and can return to normal activities. For a small number of people the fistula can come back.
