Hi,

Anal fissure and anal fistula are two different conditions affecting the anal region. While both can cause pain and discomfort, their causes and treatment options are different. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications.

What is an Anal Fissure?

An anal fissure is a small tear in the lining of the anus, most commonly caused by passing hard stools or chronic constipation.

Common Symptoms of an Anal Fissure

• Sharp pain during or after passing stools.
• Bright red blood on the stool or toilet paper.
• Burning, itching, or irritation around the anus.
• A small skin tag near the fissure.

Treatment for Anal Fissure

Non-Surgical Treatment

Mild or recent fissures may improve with:

• A high-fiber diet and adequate water intake.
• Stool softeners (if prescribed).
• Warm sitz baths.
• Medicated creams or ointments prescribed by the doctor.

Surgical Treatment

If symptoms persist despite medications or the fissure becomes chronic, surgery may be recommended.

The most common procedure is:

• Lateral Internal Sphincterotomy (LIS): A small incision is made in the anal sphincter muscle to reduce spasm and allow the fissure to heal.

What Is an Anal Fistula?

An anal fistula is an abnormal tunnel that develops between the inside of the anal canal and the skin around the anus. It usually develops after an anal abscess.

Common Symptoms of an Anal Fistula

• Persistent pain and swelling around the anus.
• Pus or blood discharge from an opening near the anus.
• Recurrent abscesses.
• Pain during bowel movements.
• Fever or chills (especially if infection is present).

Treatment for Anal Fistula

Unlike fissures, anal fistulas usually do not heal on their own and often require surgery.

Common surgical procedures include:

• Fistulotomy
• Seton Placement
• LIFT (Ligation of Intersphincteric Fistula Tract) Procedure
• Other sphincter-preserving procedures, depending on the fistula's complexity.

The appropriate surgery is decided after clinical examination and imaging, if required.

Is Anal Fissure or Anal Fistula Surgery Covered Under Ayushman Bharat?

Yes. If you are eligible for Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY), treatment for anal fissure and anal fistula surgeries may be covered at Ayushman Bharat empanelled hospitals, as per the applicable PM-JAY package guidelines.

Ayushman Bharat Benefits

• Cashless treatment at empanelled hospitals.
• Coverage of eligible surgeries, hospitalization, investigations, medicines, and related medical care as per PM-JAY package guidelines.
• Health coverage of up to ₹5 lakh per eligible family per year.

How to Find an Ayushman Bharat Hospital

Option 1: PM-JAY Website
Visit the PM-JAY website, click "Find Hospital", select your State, District, Hospital Type, and Speciality, complete the captcha, and click Search.

Option 2: HexaHealth Website
Visit the HexaHealth website, go to the Footer section, click "Ayushman Bharat Hospitals", select your State and City, and browse the list of empanelled hospitals.

How HexaHealth Can Help

HexaHealth can support you by:

• Connecting you with experienced proctologists, colorectal surgeons, and general surgeons.
• Helping you find Ayushman Bharat empanelled hospitals.
• Assisting with doctor consultations, investigations, and surgery bookings.
• Guiding you through Ayushman Bharat eligibility, documentation, and cashless treatment.
• Providing end-to-end support throughout your treatment journey.

Please Share These Details

To help us recommend the most suitable specialist and hospital, please let us know:

• Is the patient suffering from an anal fissure or an anal fistula, or has the doctor advised any surgery?
• What symptoms is the patient experiencing?
• Which city do you want treatment in?
• Does the patient have an Ayushman Bharat Card or any other health insurance?

Once you share these details, we'll help you connect with the most suitable specialist and Ayushman Bharat empanelled hospital for your treatment.