Want to Know The Most Advanced, Quick and Effective Solution for Treating Fistula?
LIFT Surgery for Fistula in Navi Mumbai: Muscle-Sparing Fistula Repair
- Dr Nitish Jhawar, with 26 years of experience
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TL;DR
LIFT (Ligation of Intersphincteric Fistula Tract) is a minimally invasive, sphincter-saving surgery for complex anal fistulas. Performed by Dr. Nitish Jhawar at Apollo Hospital in Navi Mumbai, it offers a high success rate with minimal risk of incontinence.
This procedure is globally preferred muscle sparing alternative to traditional cutting surgery (fistulotomy) specifically for specifically for patients with trans-sphincteric fistulas.
How Does Dr. Nitish Perform LIFT Surgery For Fistula Removal in Navi Mumbai?
The LIFT (Ligation of Intersphincteric Fistula Tract) procedure is a surgical technique designed to treat anal fistulas by safely closing the abnormal passage while preserving muscle function.
The colorectal surgeon accesses the fistula tract through the natural gap located between the internal and external sphincter muscles (medically known as the intersphincteric plane).
Here’s a clear breakdown of each step in the LIFT procedure, from pre-surgery preparation, surgery and post-operative care.
Step 1: Pre-Surgery Preparation
- Initial Consultation: The doctor will conduct an in-depth consultation to understand your medical history, examine the fistula, and assess your overall health.
- Diagnostic Tests: Imaging tests, such as an MRI Fistulography, or ultrasound, may be conducted to determine the fistula’s location and extent.
- Preparation Instructions: You’ll receive guidelines on what to do before the procedure, like avoiding food or certain medications, usually 8 hours before surgery.
Step 2: Anaesthesia
- Administering Anaesthesia: The LIFT procedure is typically performed under general anaesthesia to ensure patient comfort and prevent pain during surgery.
- Positioning: Once the anaesthesia takes effect, you’ll be positioned for the procedure to allow easy access to the fistula area.
Step 3: Locating the Fistula Tract
- Identifying the Fistula Path: The surgeon carefully locates the fistula tract by making a small incision near the anus.
- Accessing the Intersphincteric Space: This area lies between the internal and external anal sphincters, where the fistula tract is typically found.
Step 4: Ligation of the Fistula Tract
- Tying Off the Tract: Once the fistula tract is located, the surgeon ties it off (ligates) to block any connection between the anal canal and the skin surface.
- Severing the Tract: The remaining infected tissue is removed and internal opening is sealed. This step prevents pus from accumulating and minimizes the risk of infection returning.
Step 5: Closing the Incision
- Sealing the Area: The surgeon closes the internal and external openings and the incision area. This sealing allows the wound to heal properly, with no open connections remaining.
- Final Inspection: Before concluding, the surgeon inspects the area to ensure all steps are completed and the fistula has been properly closed.
Step 6: Post-Operative Care
- Recovery Room Observation: Following the surgery, you’ll be monitored in a recovery room until the effects of the anaesthesia wear off.
- Pain Management: The doctor will prescribe pain relievers to manage any discomfort and antibiotics to prevent infection.
- Home Care Instructions: You’ll receive guidelines for caring for the area, including:
- Hot-Sitz bath
- Keeping the area clean and dry.
- Avoiding strenuous activities for a few weeks.
- Following a fiber-rich diet to avoid constipation.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-ups are scheduled to monitor healing progress and address any concerns.
Key Benefits of the LIFT Technique For Anal Fistula Surgery in Navi Mumbai
Minimal Pain
The LIFT technique is designed to avoid cutting through the sphincter muscles, which means less trauma to the surrounding tissue. As a result, patients experience significantly less pain during and after the procedure than other methods.
Muscle Safety & Continence
Because the LIFT technique spares the sphincter muscles, it carries a much lower risk of complications, especially those related to muscle damage. This means a greatly reduced chance of incontinence (loss of control over bowel movements), which is a primary concern in fistula surgeries.
Faster Recovery
Patients undergoing LIFT typically have a shorter recovery period, often returning to regular activities in just a few weeks. Since it’s a muscle-sparing technique, the body can heal more quickly without prolonged downtime.
High Success Rates
Studies have shown that the LIFT procedure has high success rates, especially for complex and deep fistulas. By closing off the fistula tract effectively, LIFT reduces the risk of fistula recurrence, providing long-term relief for most patients.
Why LIFT is Preferred Choice Over Fistulotomy for Fistula Treatment?
Fistulotomy, often involves cutting through some of the sphincter muscles, which can increase the risk of incontinence and require a longer healing period
LIFT is advantageous because it avoids muscle cuts, reducing these risks.
LIFT is the preferred and safest choice for “high” or trans-sphincteric fistulas.
Who is an Ideal Candidate for Sphincter Saving LIFT Technique?
Dr. Jhawar typically recommends LIFT for :
(Disclaimer: This is for general education purpose only; real decision can be taken only after a thorough evaluation and physical examination by colorectal surgeon near you.)
- Patients with Complex or High Fistulas: When the fistula tract passes deep through the anal sphincter muscles (transsphincteric).
- Those Concerned About Incontinence Risks: This procedure is ideal for patients with weakened sphincter muscles, such as the elderly or those with previous surgeries, as it preserves muscle control.
- Patients Seeking Minimally Invasive Options: Offers a muscle-sparing approach with less discomfort, faster recovery, and minimal pain.
- Individuals with Recurring Fistulas: Reliable for recurring fistulas, especially when other treatments have failed, reducing long-term recurrence.
When LIFT May Not Be Suitable For Treating Fistula?
- Active Infection or Abscesses: Requires infection control first; drainage or antibiotics may be recommended before LIFT.
- Simple, Low Fistulas: Low-lying, simple fistulas may be better treated with a more direct procedure like fistulotomy.
- Patients with Crohn’s Disease: Inflammation may slow healing; seton placement or medications are often preferred.
- Multiple Fistulas: LIFT may not address multiple tracts effectively; other or combined methods may be recommended.
LIFT vs. Laser vs. VAAFT: Which is Right for Your Fistula Treatment?
While all three are sphincter-saving and muscle-sparing (0% risk of incontinence), the choice depends on the unique anatomy of your fistula tract.
During your consultation at Neoalta Clinic or Apollo Hospital, Dr. Nitish Jhawar discusses the best technique for your fistula with lowest possible recurrence risk
Feature | LIFT Surgery | ||
Best For | Deep / High Single Tracts | Simple to Moderate Tracts | Complex / Multi-branch Tracts |
Primary Action | Tying off the internal source | Heat-sealing the tunnel | Video-guided cleaning/sealing |
Success Rate | ~85% – 90% | ~70% – 80% | ~80% – 90% |
Muscle Safety | 100% Intact | 100% Intact | 100% Intact |
Expert Verdict | The Gold Standard for complex transsphincteric tracts. | Fastest initial recovery for simple tracts. | Best for “hidden” branches that other tools miss. |
Recovery and Aftercare: LIFT technique for Fistula in Navi Mumbai
Typical Recovery Timeline
- Hospital Stay: : Usually a 24-hour admission at Apollo Hospital, Navi Mumbai.
- First Few Days: Mild pain and swelling; patients may resume light activities.
- 1-2 Weeks: Most discomfort subsides; avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and sitting for long periods.
- 3-4 Weeks: Healing completes for most patients, and they can resume regular activities gradually.
Aftercare Tips
- The small surgical incision typically heals fully within 2 weeks, requiring only basic hygiene and minimal dressing care.
- Keep Area Clean: Gently wash the area with mild soap, and pat dry after bowel movements.
- Pain Relief: Significantly lower. Take prescribed pain medications as directed.
- Dietary Adjustments: Increase fiber and fluids to prevent constipation.
- When to Seek Medical Advice: Contact your doctor if you notice unusual pain, fever, excessive bleeding, or signs of infection.
Following these guidelines can help support healing and reduce the risk of complications.
LIFT Surgery at Apollo Hospital, Navi Mumbai: Dr. Nitish Jhawar
With over 26 years of surgical experience, Dr. Nitish Jhawar is a recognized expert in sphincter-saving fistula treatment at Apollo Hospital, Belapur, Navi Mumbai
- Specialized Expertise: Dr. Jhawar is a recognized expert in sphincter-saving repairs, specifically for complex or “high” fistulas.
- The Apollo Standard: Surgery is performed in world-class operating theaters designed for complex colorectal procedures, backed by 24/7 post-op nursing care.
- Continence: Muscle-sparing techniques ensures that curing the fistula never comes at the cost of your bowel control.
- Proven Success: Dr. Jhawar has successfully treated thousands of complex and recurrent fistula cases using advanced, minimally invasive methods.
LIFT Treatment for trans-sphincteric Fistulas
If your fistula involves the main sphincter muscle, the LIFT procedure offers the highest level of safety for bowel control.
Book Appointment with LIFT Specialist in Navi Mumbai at 9833290590
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the LIFT Technique
Yes. Yes, LIFT is a muscle-sparing procedure that avoids cutting the anal sphincter.
Unlike traditional surgery (fistulotomy) which cuts through the anal muscle, during LIFT the fistula surgeon works through a small incision between the muscles, leaving the sphincter intact
The LIFT procedure typically takes 30-60 minutes. It’s a relatively quick surgery, often completed in less than an hour under general anaesthesia.
The LIFT technique has a high success rate of 70-90%, for complex, high or trans-sphincteric fistulas. Success rates may vary based on the fistula’s location and individual patient health.
Most patients experience mild to moderate discomfort, significantly less pain compared to traditional methods.
Since there is no large open wound or cut muscle, mild discomfort is easily managed with basic medication.
The external skin incision usually heals within 1 to 2 weeks. Most patients return to light activities within 5-7 days. Full internal healing is typically confirmed during a follow-up at 4 to 6 weeks.
Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for at least a month to ensure proper healing.
While no surgery has a 100% guarantee, LIFT is highly effective because it seals the “internal opening” where the infection starts.
If a recurrence does occur, it usually turns into a “simple” fistula that is much easier to treat because the muscle remains undamaged.