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Fissure Surgery

Also known as: Anal fissure surgery, Lateral internal sphincterotomy A procedure to treat a tear in the lining of the anus, helping relieve pain and support healing. Specialty: Colorectal Surgery

Overview

Fissure surgery is performed to treat an anal fissure, which is a small tear in the lining of the anus that can cause significant pain, especially during bowel movements. If you are advised to have this procedure, it is usually because the fissure has not healed with medication or other treatments.

The procedure helps reduce tension in the area, allowing the tear to heal and relieving pain. It is commonly performed and is designed to improve comfort and prevent the fissure from recurring.

When It's Needed

You may need fissure surgery if you have:

  • Severe pain during or after bowel movements
  • A fissure that has not healed with treatment
  • Persistent discomfort or bleeding
  • Symptoms affecting your daily routine

How It's Performed

The procedure is usually performed under local or general anaesthesia. It involves:

  1. Making a small controlled incision to reduce muscle tension
  2. Allowing the fissure to heal more effectively
  3. Improving blood flow to the area

The technique is designed to relieve pain and support healing. The procedure typically takes about 15 to 30 minutes and is commonly performed as a day procedure.

What to Expect

Recovery

Recovery is usually manageable, with gradual improvement in pain over the first few days. You may still experience some discomfort initially, but this improves as healing progresses.

You will be guided on diet, hydration, and bowel habits to support recovery and prevent recurrence.

Diagnostics & Tests

Before the procedure, your condition may be assessed using:

These help confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment.

Support Services

You may receive support such as:

Ready when you are

Ready to take the next step?

Speak to a Nakasero specialist this week — or call our 24/7 line if you need care right now.

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