Conditions/Anal Fistula/Chapter
Anal Fistula — VAAFT
Video-assisted anal fistula treatment
Video-Assisted Anal Fistula Treatment (VAAFT) uses a small endoscope to visualize the tract, clear branches, and treat the internal opening without dividing the sphincter. It is offered in selected cases at experienced centers. Long-term data are less extensive than for fistulotomy or LIFT.
Who may be a candidate?
- Visible, accessible tracts
- Continence preservation goal
- After sepsis control
Key points
- What happensTap for details
Camera enters the tract; side branches and debris are addressed; internal opening is managed per protocol.
- Who it fitsTap for details
Not for active abscess or unmapped complex disease—MRI mapping first in many cases.
- ResultsTap for details · key note inside
Short-term comfort may improve; recurrence remains possible—plan the next step in advance.
- Combined approachesTap for details
Laser or seton may accompany or follow VAAFT depending on anatomy.
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
Fistula Plug and Fibrin Glue
Filling the tract without cutting
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.