Laser Surgery for Fistula

Are you suffering from a painful fistula? Has it been months — or even years — without relief? You are not alone. Thousands of patients across India deal with fistula every year. The good news is that laser surgery for fistula has changed the game completely. It is faster, safer, and far less painful than older methods.
According to Dr. Samrat Jankar, a Senior Surgical Gastroenterologist and Fistula Specialist in Pune, most fistula patients delay treatment out of fear of surgery. But with modern laser techniques, that fear is no longer justified. In this guide, we will explain everything you need to know — from what the procedure is, to how much it costs, to how to find the right fistula specialist in Pune.

What Is Laser Surgery for Fistula?

A fistula (also called fistula in ano) is a small tunnel that forms between the inside of the anal canal and the skin near the anus. It is usually caused by an old anal abscess that did not heal properly. It causes pain, discharge, and discomfort in daily life.
Laser surgery for fistula — medically known as FiLaC (Fistula-tract Laser Closure) or LAFT (Laser Ablation of Fistula Tract) — is a minimally invasive procedure. A thin laser probe is inserted into the fistula tunnel. The laser energy destroys the infected lining from the inside. This causes the tunnel to shrink and close on its own — without any large cuts. This is very different from laser fissurectomy or laser sphincterotomy, which are procedures used for anal fissures (tears in the anal lining). A laser fissure treatment targets a crack or tear, while laser surgery for fistula in ano targets a hollow tunnel under the skin.

Benefits of Laser Surgery for Fistula

Laser surgery has become the preferred choice for many patients and surgeons. Here is why:

Minimally Invasive: There are no large cuts or open wounds. The procedure is done through a small probe inserted into the fistula.
Less Pain After Surgery: Patients report significantly less post-operative pain compared to traditional open surgery.
Daycare Procedure: Most patients can go home the same day. There is no need for long hospital stays.
Faster Recovery: You can return to daily activities much sooner — often within a few days.
Sphincter-Sparing: This is very important. The laser technique does not damage the anal sphincter muscles. This means there is no risk of incontinence (loss of bowel control) after surgery.
Lower Infection: Risk Because there is no open wound, the chances of wound infection are much lower.
Suitable for Complex Fistulas: Laser surgery is especially recommended for high or complex fistulas, where traditional surgery carries higher risks.

Who Is a Suitable Candidate for Laser Fistula Surgery?

Not every patient needs laser surgery. Your doctor will evaluate your condition before deciding. You may be a good candidate if:

You have a confirmed fistula in ano that is not healing on its own
You have a complex or high fistula close to the sphincter muscles
You want minimal downtime and a faster recovery
You have already had one or more failed treatments with traditional methods
You want to avoid the risk of incontinence after surgery

People with very simple, low fistulas may sometimes be treated with conventional methods. However, your proctologist in Pune is the best person to advise you on the right approach.

Step-by-Step Procedure of Laser Fistula Surgery

Wondering what happens on the day of surgery? Here is a simple breakdown:

Step 1 – Pre-operative Preparation: Your doctor will run basic blood tests and imaging. You will be asked to fast for a few hours before the procedure.
Step 2 – Anaesthesia: The procedure is done under spinal or general anaesthesia. You will be completely comfortable and feel no pain during surgery.
Step 3 – Identifying the Fistula: The surgeon carefully maps the fistula tract — finding both the internal and external openings.
Step 4 – Laser Ablation: A thin radial-emitting laser probe is inserted into the fistula tunnel. Laser energy (typically 1470 nm diode laser) is delivered at 360 degrees as the probe is slowly withdrawn. This destroys and collapses the fistula tract from inside.
Step 5 – Closing the Internal Opening: The internal opening of the fistula is closed using absorbable sutures.
Step 6 – Recovery Room: You are moved to recovery for a few hours of monitoring. Most patients are discharged the same day.

The entire procedure usually takes 30 to 60 minutes.

Recovery After Laser Fistula Surgery

Recovery after laser fistula surgery is generally smooth and quick. Here is what to expect:

Day 1–2: Some mild discomfort and swelling. Pain medication is prescribed.
Day 3–5: Most patients start feeling much better. Light walking is allowed.
Week 1–2: You can resume desk work and daily activities.
Week 4–6: Full healing of the area. Your doctor will confirm at a follow-up visit.

Tips for a Smooth Recovery:

Keep the area clean. Sitz baths (warm water soaking) help reduce discomfort.
Eat a high-fibre diet to avoid constipation and straining.
Take all prescribed antibiotics and pain medicines.
Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for at least 2 weeks.
Attend all follow-up appointments without fail.

Contact your surgeon immediately if you notice excessive bleeding, fever, or severe pain.

Cost of Laser Fistula Surgery

The cost of laser surgery for fistula in ano in India varies depending on several factors:

Type and complexity of the fistula — simple vs. complex
Hospital or clinic — private clinic vs. corporate hospital
City — metro cities like Pune may have slightly higher costs than smaller towns
Surgeon’s experience — an expert fistula specialist may charge more, but the outcomes are better
On average, laser fistula surgery in Pune can range from ₹30,000 to ₹80,000 or more, depending on the above factors.

Does Insurance Cover It? Many health insurance plans do cover fistula surgery, including laser-based procedures. It is best to check with your insurer about coverage and the required documentation before the procedure.

How to Choose the Right Fistula Specialist for Laser Fistula Surgery

Choosing the right doctor is the most important decision you will make. Here is what to look for:

Experience with Laser Procedures Make sure your surgeon is specifically trained in FiLaC or LAFT. Ask how many laser fistula surgeries they have performed.
Proctology or Colorectal Specialisation Look for a qualified proctologist in Pune or colorectal surgeon — not just a general surgeon.
Good Patient Reviews Read testimonials and ask for patient references if needed.
Transparent Communication A good doctor will explain your condition clearly, discuss all options, and answer your questions patiently.

Why Patients in Pune Trust Dr. Samrat Jankar

If you are looking for an experienced and trusted fistula specialist in Pune, Dr. Samrat Jankar is a name that comes highly recommended. He is a Senior Surgical Gastroenterologist and Colorectal Surgeon at Dr Samrat Jankar Clinic Wakad, Pune.
Dr. Jankar holds an M.B.B.S., M.S. (General Surgery), and D.N.B. (Surgical Gastroenterology). He has 17+ years of experience and has performed over 5,000 successful anal fistula surgeries. He specialises in advanced laser proctology, including laser surgery for fistula in ano, as well as laser fissure treatments like laser sphincterotomy and laser fissurectomy for anal fissures.
At Dr Samrat Jankar Clinic, Dr. Jankar leads a dedicated Kaizen Fistula Care programme focused entirely on modern, patient-friendly fistula treatment. His approach combines surgical expertise with clear communication — helping patients understand their condition and make informed decisions.

Conclusion

Fistula is a painful and frustrating condition. But with today’s advanced laser techniques, there is no reason to keep suffering. Laser surgery for fistula offers a minimally invasive, safe, and effective solution — with less pain, faster recovery, and no damage to the sphincter.
Whether you need treatment for a laser fissure, a laser fissurectomy for an anal fissure, or full laser surgery for fistula in ano, the key is finding an experienced specialist who can guide you to the right treatment.
If you are based in or around Pune, consulting with a trusted proctologist in Pune like Dr. Samrat Jankar can be the first step to lasting relief. Do not delay — the sooner you seek treatment, the easier the recovery.
Book your consultation today and take the first step towards a pain-free life.