Common side effects post fissure surgery
While the surgery is often successful in relieving the symptoms associated with anal fissures, there can be potential side effects. Here are some common side effects that individuals might experience after fissure surgery:
Pain and Discomfort: Pain at the surgical site is one of the most common side effects. You might experience discomfort, soreness, or aching around the anus. This pain is often most pronounced during bowel movements.
Bleeding: Some bleeding is normal after surgery. You might notice minor spotting or light bleeding from the surgical site which will gradually subside.
Swelling: Swelling or inflammation around the surgical area can occur. This might contribute to discomfort and a feeling of tightness.
Discharge: It’s not normal to experience a clear or slightly bloody discharge from the surgical site.
Difficulty Urinating: Some individuals might experience temporary difficulty urinating due to swelling or sensitivity in the pelvic area. This usually improves as healing continues.
Constipation or Bowel Changes: Following surgery, you might experience changes in bowel habits, including constipation or difficulty passing stool. This can be related to pain and fear of exacerbating discomfort during bowel movements.
Anal Itching or Irritation: As the surgical site heals, itching or irritation around the anus can occur. This is generally temporary.
Fecal Urgency: You might experience a sense of urgency to have a bowel movement. This can be related to the body’s response to healing.
Sensation Changes: Some individuals might notice changes in sensation around the anus, including numbness or tingling. These sensations often resolve as healing progresses.
Complications or Risks after Fissure Surgery
Recurrence or Incomplete Healing: While the procedure aims to treat anal fissures, there’s a possibility of recurrence or incomplete healing, particularly if underlying causes like constipation or straining are not adequately addressed. Recurrence is very rare.
Muscle Spasms: Muscle spasms in the anal area, known as anal sphincter spasms, might occur causing pain and discomfort.
Slow Healing or Persistent Pain: Some individuals might experience slow wound healing or persistent pain after surgery, requiring further evaluation and management.
Allergic Reactions: Rarely, allergic reactions to medications used during surgery or for postoperative care can occur.
When to consult a doctor: After fissure surgery complications
Excessive Bleeding: If you notice heavy bleeding from the surgical site that doesn’t seem to be subsiding or if you’re passing large amounts of blood during bowel movements, contact your doctor.
Severe Pain: While some discomfort is expected after surgery, if you’re experiencing severe or worsening pain that is not relieved by prescribed pain medications, it’s important to reach out to your doctor.
Signs of Infection: If you notice increased redness, warmth, swelling, or discharge with an unpleasant odour at the surgical site, you could have an infection. Fever might also accompany an infection, seeking medical attention.
Fever: A persistent or high-grade fever after surgery could indicate an infection or other complication. Contact your doctor if your temperature is elevated.
Difficulty Urinating: If you’re having trouble urinating, experience pain while urinating, or notice blood in your urine, consult your doctor.
Changes in Bowel Habits: If you notice sudden changes in bowel habits, such as increased frequency, severe constipation, or fecal incontinence (loss of bowel control), let your doctor know.
Anal Stenosis Symptoms: If you experience difficulty passing stool, straining, or discomfort during bowel movements that is worsening, this could indicate anal stenosis, a potential complication.
Delayed Healing: If your surgical incision is not showing signs of improvement, or if you’re concerned about slow healing, reach out to your doctor.
Allergic Reactions: If you experience symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing that could indicate an allergic reaction to medications, seek medical help.
Unusual Discomfort: If you’re experiencing unusual or unexpected discomfort, pain, or sensations in the surgical area that are causing concern, don’t hesitate to contact your doctor.
Worsening Symptoms: If any symptoms you initially experienced are worsening instead of improving over time, consult your doctor.
Wrap-up Tips on post-fissure surgery problems:
It’s better to err on the side of caution and communicate with your healthcare provider if you’re unsure about any aspect of your recovery. Your doctor will be able to assess your situation and provide appropriate guidance or treatment to address any complications or concerns that arise after fissure surgery. Consulting a top fissure surgeon such as Dr. Sunil Tibrewal can help you in complete care i.e., from consultation to post-operative care.
