Lateral Internal Sphincterotomy

If an anal fissure requires an operation, colorectal surgeons at Celebration Colorectal will perform a lateral internal sphincterotomy.

In this procedure, the surgeon will stretch or cut the muscle that relaxes, then restricts to pass stool. This is known as the internal sphincter. The muscle is cut to prevent it from experiencing spasms. This will help it heal after the fissure is removed along with any of the scar tissue that has formed.

During a lateral internal sphincterotomy you will be given a local anesthetic, which will numb the entire lower portion of your body. The entire procedure takes 20 to 30 minutes so you can usually go home the same day.

Once surgery is complete, you’ll be monitored by the nursing team to make sure you’re progressing as expected and ensure that the anesthesia has completely worn off. You’ll be released when you’re able to walk around comfortably on your own. Since you’ve had anesthesia, your doctor will require you to make arrangements for someone to drive you home. In most cases, you’ll be able to go home in a few hours.

At home you may have mild to moderate pain for the first few days after surgery. This is normal. Your doctor may prescribe a pain medication, but over the counter products will work just fine if the pain is mild.

Post care includes sitz baths, which can be taken in the evening after you get home or the following morning. This will keep the area clean and reduce the pain. A sitz bath should be taken at least twice a day for about 10 to 15 minutes. The water should be warm, not hot.

It may be a couple of weeks before you’re complete healed, but you should be able to return to work or school fairly soon once the pain and discomfort has subsided to a manageable level.

If you're interested in learning more about lateral internal sphincterotomy procedures, please make an appointment today.