Conditions/Anal Fistula/Chapter
Anal Fistula — Fistula Plug and Fibrin Glue
Filling the tract without cutting
Biologic plugs or fibrin sealants attempt to fill and close the fistula channel without sphincter division—continence risk is lower than lay-open surgery. Short-term results vary; long-term healing is generally lower than fistulotomy, LIFT, or flap in many series. Selected narrow, quiet tracts only.
Who may be a candidate?
- Continence is the top priority
- Narrow single tract without active sepsis
Key points
- Set expectationsTap for details · key note inside
Success is inconsistent; failure should not surprise—backup plan is discussed upfront.
- AdvantagesTap for details
Minimal tissue loss and low incontinence risk in appropriate anatomy.
- If it failsTap for details
Persistent discharge or new abscess triggers re-mapping; LIFT or flap often remains possible.
- Poor candidatesTap for details · key note inside
Active abscess, horseshoe tracts, uncontrolled Crohn inflammation—control sepsis first.
More chapters in this hub
Anal Fistula Symptoms
Discharge, recurrent abscess, and urgent warning signs
Anal Fistula Diagnosis
Exam, MRI mapping, and Parks classification
Anal Fistula Treatment Options
Fistulotomy, seton, LIFT, flap, and other options
Anal Fistula Classification
Classification — explained for shared decision-making
Fistulotomy
Lay-open for selected low, simple tracks
Seton for Anal Fistula
Seton: what the procedure aims to do and who it fits
Living with a Seton
Hygiene, activity, and warning signs while draining
LIFT Procedure for Anal Fistula
LIFT: what the procedure aims to do and who it fits
Advancement Flap
Sphincter-sparing closure of the internal opening
Crohn’s and Anal Fistula
Medical therapy plus drainage/seton — shared plan
Anal Fistula Technique Comparison
Comparison — explained for shared decision-making
After Fistula Surgery
Wound care, soft stools, and return to activity
Fistula Recurrence
Why tracks return and how the next plan is built
What Causes an Anal Fistula?
Abscess, Crohn’s, and other triggers
Abscess and Fistula Link
Infection first, tunnel second
Laser Fistula Treatment (FiLaC)
Sphincter-sparing laser ablation
VAAFT
Video-assisted fistula treatment
Continence Risk in Fistula Surgery
Protecting control while healing
Appointment / info
This page is for education. It is not medical advice and does not replace a visit with your physician.
Medical editor: Assoc. Prof. Cengiz Dibekoğlu, MD · Last medically reviewed: August 2026 · English patient-education chapter.