Anal fistula – assessment and referral
An anal fistula is a chronic tract between the rectum and the skin – usually arising after a perianal abscess. Surgery requires general anaesthesia and is performed in hospital. At Kirurgen.dk we work the condition up and refer you on.
Written and medically reviewed by Bahir Hadi, consultant surgeon, PhD
Typical symptoms
- Persistent or recurrent discharge of pus or blood near the anus.
- A small opening in the skin (fistula mouth) that weeps.
- Recurrent abscesses in the same area.
- Irritation, itching and odour.
Why we don't operate in the clinic
Treatment depends on the fistula's course through the sphincter (Parks classification). It requires general anaesthesia, an operating theatre and often advanced techniques such as seton, LIFT or advancement flap. We therefore refer onward to a colorectal department.
Our work-up at Kirurgen.dk
- Clinical examination by a specialist surgeon.
- Endoanal ultrasound to map the fistula tract.
- Assessment for underlying disease such as Crohn's, as treatment differs.
- Second opinion on existing diagnosis or treatment plan.
Referral – where do we send you?
We refer to a colorectal department in the Capital Region:
- Herlev Hospital – GI/Colorectal Surgery.
- Hvidovre Hospital – Gastro Unit.
- Bispebjerg Hospital – Department of Surgery.
- Hillerød (Nordsjællands Hospital) – Department of Surgery.
- Private hospital of your choice, if you have health insurance.
Book an assessment
You can book with or without a referral. With a GP referral the work-up is free under public health insurance.
Contact and appointments
Online booking is not available. Please call the clinic or ask your GP for a referral, so we can find the right appointment.
With a referral from your GP, treatment is free under the Danish public health insurance.
Call the clinic
+45 39 64 01 25
Phone hours
Phone hours: Mon–Thu 09:00–12:00
Address
Hans Edvard Teglers Vej 9, 1st floor · 2920 Charlottenlund