An anal fissure is a small tear or cut in the skin around the anus, typically caused by passing hard stools. It can be a very painful condition, and while it often heals on its own, in some cases, it requires treatment to relieve symptoms and promote healing. At Dr Bernard Lim Specialist Surgery, we offer both non-surgical and surgical options for treating anal fissures, ensuring you receive the best care for effective recovery.
If you are experiencing these symptoms, it’s essential to seek medical advice. A specialist will perform a gentle examination to differentiate the fissure from other conditions such as haemorrhoids (especially if thrombosed), abscesses, fistula-in-ano, or anal cancer.
In many cases, the fissure can be seen externally, making it easy to diagnose. However, if the pain is severe, an internal examination may be challenging. Your doctor will take a detailed medical history, perform a physical exam, and, if necessary, use a gentle examination or other diagnostic tools to confirm the diagnosis.
For most anal fissures, conservative measures are sufficient to relieve pain and promote healing:
If non-surgical treatments do not relieve the symptoms or if the fissure becomes chronic, surgery may be required. A minor procedure called Lateral Anal Sphincterotomy (LAS) may be recommended. This procedure is usually done as day surgery under general anaesthesia and involves:
At Dr Bernard Lim Specialist Surgery, we provide expert care for patients suffering from anal fissures. Our approach includes:
We carefully assess your symptoms to ensure the correct diagnosis and differentiate from other conditions
We offer both non-surgical and surgical options to suit your needs
Our specialists are highly skilled in managing anal fissures and providing the most effective treatments
We prioritise your comfort and dignity, ensuring a smooth and supportive treatment process
We carefully assess your symptoms to ensure the correct diagnosis and differentiate from other conditions
We offer both non-surgical and surgical options to suit your needs
Our specialists are highly skilled in managing anal fissures and providing the most effective treatments
We prioritise your comfort and dignity, ensuring a smooth and supportive treatment process
With proper care and treatment, most anal fissures heal within a few weeks. Chronic fissures or those that require surgery may take longer.
Surgery is usually only necessary if conservative treatments fail or if the fissure becomes chronic. Most patients recover well with non-operative treatments.
Maintaining a high-fibre diet, staying hydrated, and avoiding constipation are essential. It's also important to avoid straining during bowel movements.
Lateral Anal Sphincterotomy is typically performed under general anaesthesia, so you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. Post-surgery pain is usually mild and manageable with medication.
Most patients can return to normal activities within a few days after LAS surgery. However, you should avoid strenuous activities for a few weeks to ensure proper healing.
Don’t let anal fissures cause you ongoing pain and discomfort. Trust our specialists to guide you towards effective treatment and a swift recovery.