Sphincterotomy in New Orleans, LA
What is a sphincterotomy?
Lateral internal sphincterotomy is a surgical procedure performed to care for anal fissures. An anal fissure is a tear within the tissue lining of the anus and may be accompanied by pain and bleeding when passing stool. The internal sphincter muscle within the anus is constantly under tension, but an elevation in pressure has been known to be followed by the appearance of anal fissures or the prevention of an existing fissure from healing. If you are searching for a provider who offers sphincterotomies in New Orleans, LA, our providers can help. Reach out to Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates to request an appointment with one of our gastroenterology providers to learn more about this treatment option.
Who is a candidate for a sphincterotomy?
This surgery may be beneficial to individuals suffering from anal fissures. The symptoms of anal fissures can include:
- Pain during bowel movements
- Bleeding
- Itching
Some anal fissures will likely resolve on their own or with the aid of at-home therapies. Lateral internal sphincterotomy is recommended in circumstances where more conservative treatment measures fail to heal the fissure. To determine if you are a candidate for this procedure, contact one of our skilled GI specialists in New Orleans, LA today to request a consultation.
How is a sphinceterotomy performed?
A sphincterotomy is conducted on an outpatient basis and under local or general anesthesia. Your gastroenterologist will make a minor incision within the internal anal sphincter. The incision in the muscle reduces the pressure, providing an opportunity for the fissure to heal. The incision will then either be stitched with dissolvable stitches or may be left open to heal naturally. As with any surgery, lateral internal sphincterotomy might involve certain risks and complications, such as the inability to control stool or gas, pain, bleeding, infection at the site of the incision, and trouble with passing urine. We urge you to have a conversation regarding the complete list of possible benefits and risks regarding this procedure with your Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates provider.
Healing is possible for anal fissures
Anal fissures could close naturally. However, if you are experiencing a fissure that is not healing and is failing to respond to the more traditional approaches, a sphincterotomy may be able to help. Should you have other questions about the sphincterotomy or any alternate treatment method for anal fissures, we implore you to call a Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates provider. As a physician-led group of gastroenterologists, Metropolitan Gastroenterology Associates works toward the goal of being able to provide patient-focused treatment for GI tract conditions like anal fissures. If you are seeking a specialist who can perform a sphincterotomy in New Orleans, LA, please contact your nearest location today.
