There are more ways than one to treat anal fissures. One of the oldest surgical methods for fissure treatment is known as Anal Dilation or, by its older name, The Lord’s Operation. In recent years it has fallen out of favor due to several risks but it remains one of the more effective surgical methods in treating anal fissures. What is the anal dilation (Lord’s Operation) for anal fissure treatment? What advantages and risks does it entail? Below are a few points that would give one an idea on how the treatment would work best for their anal problem.
How it Works
Anal Dilation, in essence, is simply stretching the anal sphincter to relieve the built-up pressure there. It is important to note that anal fissures form when considerable stress is applied on the anal muscles, especially during the passing of very large stools. Frequent stress and pressure applied to the area would result in the anoderm, the tissue surrounding the anus, to break and form what would be called an anal fissure.
Using lubricant and his own fingers, the doctor carefully massages the constricting anal muscles until the correct pressure is felt. The muscles will be massaged continuously until it stretches enough and the overall pressure is greatly reduced. This is done slowly and gradually to avoid tearing the fibers of the muscles further or causing another fissure to form. After the stretching the muscles, the patient may have to use an anal dilator for a period of 6 months to allow their muscles to adjust to their new orientation. As such, anal dilation is a preventive or corrective measure to ensure that no anal fissure forms in the first place or help in preventing another from forming near the first site.
Pros and Cons
With the sphincter muscles relaxed, any built up pressure on the anal area will be greatly reduced which results in fewer fissure symptoms. The enlarged passage would also result in an easier passage of stool. With the anal area allowing for the passage of bigger wastes with minimal trauma or stress, the chances of forming a fissure are greatly reduced.
However, the procedure is not without flaws and has a high rate of failure hence why it is rarely recommended in the modern times. An improperly executed anal dilation will leave considerable damage to the sphincter which would lead to incontinence in the feces and even anal leakage. The formation of blood clots can also be expected especially if the stretching caused some bleeding in the general area. At worst, the rectal tissue can be torn considerably which leaves the person open to the effects of anal fissures.
To get the most of what is the anal dilation (Lord’s Operation) for anal fissure treatment, it is imperative that one seeks an initial consultation with a colorectal surgeon. The expert can give a proper evaluation for the person based on their medical history and provide them with a comprehensive treatment plan that can help reduce the chances of anal fissure with the help of anal dilation.
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