What Is Anal Stenosis? Symptoms and Treatment Methods
Anal stenosis is the narrowing of the anal canal, losing its normal elasticity and failing to dilate sufficiently during defecation. Patients typically describe this as very narrow stools, severe straining, and a feeling of incomplete evacuation.
Causes of Anal Stenosis
Anal stenosis usually develops when tissues in the area are damaged and scar over during healing:
- Previous Surgeries: Especially following incorrectly performed or overly extensive hemorrhoid surgery — the most common cause.
- Chronic Anal Fissures: Repeated opening and healing of long-term fissures can stiffen the tissue.
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Conditions like Crohn's disease can cause narrowing in this area.
- Laxative Abuse: Long-term indiscriminate use of laxatives can impair bowel and anal function.
Diagnosis
Anal stenosis is diagnosed through physical examination by a specialist. The severity (mild, moderate, severe) and tissue stiffness are assessed during examination.
Treatment Options
1. Medical Treatment and Dilation
- Muscle-Relaxing Creams: Medication to relieve sphincter spasm.
- Anal Dilators: Specialized medical devices used under medical supervision to gradually widen the canal.
- High-Fiber Diet: Softening stool to reduce irritation from the narrowing.
2. Surgical Treatment — Anoplasty
- Anoplasty (Flap Surgery): Sliding healthy skin into the narrowed area to widen the anal canal.
- Lateral Internal Sphincterotomy: Relaxing the sphincter muscle for narrowing caused purely by muscle spasm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does everyone who has hemorrhoid surgery develop stenosis?
No. With modern tissue-preserving techniques, the risk of stenosis is very low. Stenosis typically results from uncontrolled tissue removal.
Anal Stenosis Treatment Prices in Antalya
Costs depend on the severity of stenosis, scope of surgical intervention, and hospital stay. For detailed information and appointments, contact us.