Contact number: 020 7806 4060
What is Anal Fistula Surgery?
Anal fistula surgery is a surgical procedure aimed at treating anal fistulas – abnormal connections between the epithelialised surface of the anal canal and the perianal skin. This condition often results from an abscess and can cause chronic discharge, pain, and discomfort.
The fistulotomy involves surgically opening the fistula to allow it to heal from the inside out. It’s a precise procedure that requires the skill of experienced colorectal surgeons. Our team uses the latest techniques to ensure the best outcomes with minimal discomfort and recovery time. There are several options for anal fistula surgery including:
- Laying open of an anal fistula. In this surgery your consultant will make a small cut to open the fistula to stop infected pockets developing
- Seaton placement for anal fistula. If your anal fistula is higher up in the anal canal, your surgeon will place a stitch (also known as a seaton) where the fistula is. This remains in place for several months to allow the draining and healing of your fistula
- Endoscopic laser ablation for an anal fistula. Your surgeon will place a small, thin tube in the fistula and an electrode will be used to seal the fistula.
- LIFT procedure for an anal fistula. This anal fistula treatment may be suggested if your fistula runs through the anal sphincter muscles.
- Laser fistula surgery. This treatment uses a small laser beam to seal the fistula.
With all these surgeries, we aim to achieve fistula closure/healing minimising the risk of sphincter damage and incontinence.
Anal fistula surgery at St John & St Elizabeth Hospital
At St John & St Elizabeth Hospital, we provide private anal fistula diagnosis, treatment and surgery in a calm and comfortable environment. Our hospital is staffed with highly experienced colorectal surgeons and supportive nursing to ensure you have a smooth and stress free environment to have your anal fistula surgery.
We offer same day appointments to see our colorectal doctors at a time that suits you and with on-site imaging you won’t have to wait for diagnostic tests and scans. Conveniently located in NW8, you’ll be seen quickly by a specialist, offered rapid appointment times and given clear pricing.
Consultants who perform Anal Fistula Surgery
How Much Does Private Anal Fistula Surgery Cost?
from £2,500*
The price of a private anal fistula surgery depends on the type of procedure performed. The prices shown are the estimated from price and would include all hospital related costs associated with your treatment, from admission to discharge. The price does not include the cost of consultation, diagnostics, or the surgeon or anaesthetist fee.
| The cost of a private Fistulotomy (Laying open of a low anal fistula) is £3,750* at St John & St Elizabeth Hospital |
| The cost of a private Seton placement for an anal fistula treatment costs £2,500* at St John & St Elizabeth Hospital |
| The cost of private LIFT (Ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract) for an anal fistula is £2,600* at St John & St Elizabeth Hospital |
| The cost of private Endoscopic laser ablation for an anal fistula is £3,600* at St John & St Elizabeth Hospital |
How to pay for your treatment
If you’re… paying for yourself
Did you know you don’t need private medical insurance to come to St John & St Elizabeth Hospital? As a self-pay patient, you can access safe, outstanding quality health care at times to suit you.
For scans and tests, as well as to see most consultants, you’ll still need to be referred by a medical professional like your GP, but as a self-pay patient, the process is more straightforward. You won’t need authorisation from an insurance provider, and you’ll have greater choice of consultant and appointment times.
If you’re… insured
St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is approved by all major medical insurance companies. If you have a personal private health insurance policy, or your company provide it for you, you can use it to pay for your care from your initial consultation through to treatment, surgery and aftercare such as physiotherapy. Not all private health insurance plans cover the same things. It’s very important to check exactly what you are covered for with your insurance provider.
Frequently Asked Questions about Laser Haemorrhoid Ablation Surgery
Give your body the time it needs to heal by initially resting and avoiding strenuous activities. Gradually reintroduce activities and exercises according to the advice of your healthcare team, being careful not to exert yourself too soon.
St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is located in St John’s Wood (NW8), a well-connected and vibrant area of North West London, known for landmarks such as Regent’s Park and Abbey Road Studios. We are easily accessible from neighbouring areas, including Hampstead (NW3) and Kilburn (NW6):
- By Tube: St John’s Wood station (Jubilee Line) is just a 5-minute walk from the hospital. For patients travelling from Hampstead (NW3), Finchley Road station (Jubilee Line) offers a convenient route, while Kilburn (NW6) is similarly well served by the same line.
- By Bus:
Wellington Road: Routes 13, 46, 82, and 113 stop near St John’s Wood Underground Station, just a short walk from the hospital.
Circus Road: Routes 46 and 187 stop close to the hospital’s Circus Road entrance.
Abbey Road: Routes 139 and 189 stop near the junction where Grove End Road becomes Abbey Road, providing easy access.
- By Car: If you’re travelling from NW3 or NW6, use major roads like Finchley Road or Kilburn High Road for a direct approach.
Our hospital’s location in St John’s Wood ensures easy access for patients across London, particularly from the NW8, NW3, and NW6 postcodes
If you are worried about your symptoms or have been referred by your GP, you can get in touch to book an appointment with one of our specialist consultants. During your initial visit, your doctor will ask about your symptoms, review any test results, take a detailed medical history, and discuss your treatment options. If laser fistula ablation is recommended, your doctor will explain the procedure, risks, and benefits, and you’re encouraged to ask any questions.
Your consultant will provide a specific pre-procedure protocol tailored to your needs. It’s important to share all relevant health information, including existing conditions, allergies—especially to anaesthetics or medications—and current medications to ensure your safety during surgery.
On the day of surgery, you’ll be prepared with general anaesthesia to keep you comfortable and pain-free. The skilled surgeon will then perform the fistulotomy with precision, addressing the fistula to promote effective healing. After the procedure, the surgical site is carefully closed, and you will be gradually brought out of anaesthesia.
Recovery is designed to be as smooth and comfortable as possible. Immediate aftercare includes prioritising rest and following your personalised wound care instructions. Pain management solutions will be provided to ensure your comfort. You will receive guidance on gradually resuming daily activities to support optimal healing and prevent complications.
Yes, a two-week post-operative appointment is scheduled to assess healing and address any concerns. Additional follow-ups may be arranged at six weeks, twelve weeks, and six months to monitor your recovery and ensure the best possible outcome.
Medically reviewed by Mr Massimo Varcada - MBBS MD FRCS FEBS (Coloproctology) on 11/04/2024