Sphincterotomy in Texas
What is a sphincterotomy?
Lateral internal sphincterotomy is a surgery performed to treat anal fissures. An anal fissure is a small rip in the tissue lining the anus and is typically characterized by bleeding and discomfort when passing stool. The internal anal sphincter muscle is under constant tension, but increased pressure could lead to the appearance of anal fissures or can prevent a current fissure from healing. If you are searching for a provider who offers sphincterotomies in Texas, our specialists can help. Consult with Texas Digestive Disease Consultants to request a consultation with one of our gastroenterology providers to receive answers to all of your questions.
Who should get a sphincterotomy?
For patients dealing with anal fissures, a sphincterotomy is a helpful procedure. Anal fissures often present with the following symptoms:
- Pain during bowel movements
- Bleeding
- Itching
Many cases of anal fissures will likely heal without intervention or in combination with at-home treatments. Lateral internal sphincterotomy is justified in cases where conservative approaches fail to heal the fissure.
How does a sphincterotomy work?
The sphincterotomy with our Texas providers is an outpatient procedure under either local or general anesthesia. Your provider creates a minor incision in the internal anal sphincter. This incision within the muscle decreases the pressure, thus allowing the fissure to heal. The incision is either sutured with dissolvable stitches or can be allowed to remain open to allow for natural healing. As with any surgery, lateral internal sphincterotomy might encompass given complications and risks, such as incontinence of stool or gas, pain, bleeding, infection at the location of the incision, and trouble with passing urine. Feel free to discuss the complete list of possible benefits and risks of this surgical procedure with our Texas Digestive Disease Consultants gastroenterologist.
