Anal Fistula Surgery in Navi Mumbai
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Second opinion and redo surgery anal fistula expert in Navi Mumbai
26+ Years of Experience | Internationally Trained
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Led by Dr. Nitish Jhawar, a senior Colorectal, Laparoscopic & Robotic Surgeon in Navi Mumbai with over 26+ years of experience, our practice is referral center for complex, branching, and recurrent fistula surgery.
Dr. Jhawar specializes in sphincter-saving (muscle-preserving) fistula treatments like LASER, VAAFT, DLPL, and LIFT at Apollo Hospital (Belapur), Zen Hospital Chembur and Neoalta Specialty Clinic (Vashi).
2026 Fistula Treatment: Sphincter-Saving Technologies at a Glance
Treatment Method | Clinical Focus | Key Patient Benefit |
Laser (FiLaC™) | Simple to moderate straight tracts. | No cuts or stitches; fastest return to work. |
DLPL (Distal Laser) | Complex, Multi branch & Recurrent cases. | Combined approach; ties off the source while laser-sealing the tract. |
VAAFT | Branched/Horseshoe fistulas. | Endoscopic, HD Camera precision; minimally invasive, identifies hidden tracks. |
LIFT Procedure | Deep/Transsphincteric tracts. | Muscle-safe; zero risk to bowel control. |
Expert Insight: Unlike traditional “cutting” surgeries, these advanced treatment focus on closing the internal opening while preserving the integrity of the anal sphincter muscles.
What Are The Options For Anal Fistula Surgery in Navi Mumbai?
In Navi Mumbai, Dr Jhawar prioritize Sphincter-Saving techniques. Unlike traditional “Fistulotomy” (cutting the muscle), these modern treatment focus on maintaining bowel control.
Laser Fistula Treatment (FiLaC™)
The FiLaC (Fistula-tract Laser Closure) is a minimally invasive technique where a laser probe is inserted into the fistula tract.
Ideal for simple to moderate fistulas, this “no-cut” procedure uses a radial laser fiber to seal the tract from the inside.
- Advantage of Laser Fistula Treatment: No surgical wounds, minimal pain, and discharge usually within 24-48 hours.
VAAFT (Video-Assisted Anal Fistula Treatment):
VAAFT is a modern surgical technique for fistula treatment in Navi Mumbai.
Using a specialized endoscope (high-definition camera), Dr. Jhawar visualizes the internal opening and any hidden branches of the fistula.
- Advantage of VAAFT Fistula Surgery: This provides 100% accuracy in identifying the internal source of infection without large incisions.
LIFT (Ligation of Intersphincteric Fistula Tract):
The LIFT procedure is a technique for Complex or Trans-sphincteric fistulas that pass through the main sphincter muscles.
- Advantage of LIFT: The tract is tied off in the plane between the muscles, virtually eliminating the risk of fecal incontinence and it has excellent outcomes in terms of fistula healing.
DLPL (Distal Laser Proximal Ligation)
DLPL (Distal Laser Proximal Ligation) is a sphincter-saving fistula procedure a hybrid approach that combines:
Proximal Ligation (tying off the internal opening near the anal canal)
Distal Laser (sealing the rest of the tract with a laser).
Advantage of DLPL for fistula repair:
DLPL has an exceptionally low recurrence rate, even in cases where previous surgeries have failed. It is highly effective for complex or recurrent fistulas.
Expert Management of Recurrent & Failed Fistulas in Navi Mumbai
Many patients seek a second opinion from Dr. Nitish Jhawar after previous procedures have failed.
He specializes in these “Redo” cases for “Recurrent Fistulas” in Navi Mumbai.
Dr. Jhawar may use VAAFT to see hidden branches or LIFT/DLPL to seal the internal source of infection and ligate it.
What Are The Benefits of Advanced Anal Fistula Treatment In Navi Mumbai?
Sphincter Preservation:
Advanced methods like VAAFT, LIFT, and LASER ensure that the anal sphincter muscles remain intact, reducing the risk of incontinence. This is especially crucial for maintaining normal bowel function post-surgery.
Less Pain:
Minimally invasive techniques result in significantly reduced post-operative pain, leading to a more comfortable recovery.
Minimal Recovery Time:
Compared to traditional surgery, patients experience faster healing, allowing them to return to normal activities sooner with fewer complications.
Reduced Risk of Recurrence:
Advanced techniques like LASER, VAAFT, and LIFT offer more precise treatment, minimizing the chance of fistula recurrence.
Minimal Scarring:
Due to the minimally invasive nature of these surgeries, patients experience very little to no scarring, enhancing cosmetic outcomes.
Lower Infection Risk:
The precise and minimally invasive approach reduces the risk of post-surgical infections compared to traditional surgery.
Improved Quality of Life:
Faster recovery and less discomfort allow patients to resume daily activities more quickly, improving their overall quality of life post-surgery.
Why Choose Dr. Nitish Jhawar for Anal Fistula Surgery in Navi Mumbai?
- 26+ Years of Mastery: As a senior Colorectal, Laparoscopic & Robotic Surgeon at Apollo Hospital (Belapur), Dr. Nitish Jhawar specializes in Complex & “Redo” fistula surgeries in Navi Mumbai.
- Advanced Technology: Dr. Jhawar performs fistula surgeries within the advanced surgical OT of Apollo Hospital (Navi Mumbai) with laser unit and advanced video endoscopic fistula treatment system (VAAFT).
- Mentorship Under the Inventor: Dr. Nitish Jhawar is one of the few surgeons in India internationally trained in Germany by Dr. Piercarlo Meinero, the inventor of the VAAFT technique.
- Global Training Standards: His expertise is backed by experience in Colorectal surgery from the USA and Germany.
- A Teacher: Dr. Jhawar is a recognized faculty and mentor at premier institutes like IMAAST. He regularly conducts live surgical workshops, teaching the next generation of surgeons the nuances of Laser surgery and complex proctology.
Patients trust him for his precision and compassionate care, making him a top choice for anal fistula surgeries in Mumbai.
What is an Anal Fistula?
An anal fistula is an abnormal tunnel that forms between the skin around the anus and the inside of the anal canal. It often results from an infection in the anal glands that leads to an abscess. When untreated, the infection creates this fistulous tract.
Common Symptoms of Anal Fistula
A fistula typically presents with:
- Recurrent Drainage: Persistent pus, blood, or foul-smelling discharge.
- Perianal Swelling: Painful lumps near the anal opening that may “burst” and refill.
- Irritation and pain Itching, skin redness, and discomfort that worsens with sitting or bowel movements.
- Fever: Occasionally, an infection may cause fever.
If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it could indicate an anal fistula and should be assessed by a colorectal specialist or proctologist.
Why is Surgery Needed for an Anal Fistula?
- Fistulas rarely heal on their own: Without surgery, the fistula may persist and worsen.
- Prevent infection recurrence: Surgery eliminates the infected tract, reducing the chance of recurrent abscesses or infections.
- Avoid complications: Untreated fistulas can lead to chronic pain, abscesses, and systemic infections.
- Faster healing with advanced techniques: Modern surgical methods like VAAFT, LIFT, and LASER promote quicker recovery and reduce the risk of incontinence.
- Long-term relief: Surgery offers permanent resolution compared to temporary symptom relief.
How Dr. Nitish Diagnose Anal Fistula?
Digital Rectal Exam (DRE):
The doctor uses a gloved finger to feel inside the rectum and assess the presence of any fistulous tracts or abnormalities around the anal region.
3D MRI Fistulogram (The Gold Standard):
MRI and endoanal ultrasound provides highly detailed images of the anal canal, helping the surgeon determine the fistula’s location, the primary tract and all secondary "hidden" branches, and complexity. This is crucial in planning the most appropriate surgical treatment.
Colonoscopy:
A colonoscopy involves inserting a flexible tube with a camera into the rectum to inspect the lower gastrointestinal tract.
This helps detect the fistula and underlying conditions like Crohn's disease, which contribute to the fistula and may need treatment alongside the surgery.
These methods are essential for accurately diagnosing the fistula. <br>
Dr Jhawar uses Methylene Blue or Hydrogen Peroxide to confirm the tract’s path in real-time during fistula surgery.
Get a precise MRI-based diagnosis and a sphincter-saving treatment plan from Navi Mumbai’s leading colorectal expert.
Book a Fistula Consultation with Dr. Nitish Jhawar at 9833290590.
FAQs about Fistula Treatment in Navi Mumbai
Recurrence of an anal fistula is often due to incomplete healing, residual infection, or untreated secondary tracts. Inadequate post-operative care or complex fistula structures can also contribute.
To prevent fistula recurrence, follow these key steps: maintain proper hygiene, eat a high-fiber diet to avoid constipation, and stay well-hydrated.
After surgery, follow post-op care instructions closely, keep the area clean, avoid heavy activities, and attend follow-up appointments. Watch Dr. Nitish’s video – How to prevent recurrence of Fistula.
Laser treatment (FiLaC) and VAAFT offers the faser recovery. Most patients return to light work within 48 to 72 hours. Heavy physical activity is usually restricted for 2 weeks.
Sphincter saving procedures such as – LIFT, VAAFT, Laser and DLPL, significantly minimizing the risk of loosing bowel control and ensuring patient safety.
No. Antibiotics may temporarily clear pus or an abscess, but they cannot close the physical tunnel. Surgical or laser intervention is required to close the internal opening permanently.