Anal Fistula

Overview

An anal fistula is an abnormal, infected channel (tract) with an internal opening in the anal canal and an external opening in the skin near the anus or rectum. It is fairly common in people who have an infected anal abscess with drainage.

Why choose Mayo Clinic

• Experience. You benefit from experience of skilled surgeons who each year diagnose and treat hundreds of people who have anal fistulas.
• Diagnostic expertise. Thanks to experience and advanced imaging technology, Mayo specialists can trace the pathway of the most hard-to-find fistulas.
• Advanced treatments. Colon and rectal specialists at Mayo Clinic offer the latest treatment options, including fibrin glue and fibrin plug.
• Coordinated care. Colon and rectal surgeons work with specialists in digestive diseases (gastroenterology), gynecology, plastic surgery and radiology to ensure the right expertise is available to solve your problem.

Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., ranks No. 1 for digestive disorders in the U.S. News & World Report Best Hospitals rankings. Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, Ariz., and in Jacksonville, Fla., are ranked among the Best Hospitals for digestive disorders by U.S. News & World Report.