Doctors found an Anal Fistula. Do I need surgery? | Dr. Chung answers YOUR questions!

[@ronaldocortes9428]

I had fistula over 8 years ago, 3 surgeries and keeps coming back. I installed a bidet on every toilets at home and soap next to it, now the problem is gone. Keep yourself clean is the best solution I found. Try it, won't hurt.

[@milansarker3941]

Hello...I have subcatenous fistula. If I use your method, is there any chance it wont come back?

[@mohibullah6215]

Please give me your email or phone number. I want to discuss my case.

[@peachesandpoets]

About to have my first surgery. Will get a bidet

[@bam414141]

worked for me too. (bidet)

[@hammyysu]

Already used a bidet before my fistula. It has returned 3 times. I use stay clean, use bidet, wipes, antibacterial soap amd change underwear 2 x daily.

[@kristinh7982]

Thank you for going against the grain and telling the truth rather than fear sales for surgery or pharmaceuticals.

[@jefftaylor844]

I wish ALL doctors were as honest and open minded as this doctor. I've had my fistula for about a year. Other than a little discharge and smell, my life hasn't changed much at all. Weighing out the possible side effects from surgery versus taking a wait and see approach, I think putting off surgery at this time, is the correct approach. Becoming incontinent would be devastating at the age of only 55.

[@XYZUSER2007]

Hi, do you follow any specific diet or regimen to keep the condition under control? I was diagnosed with fistula 3 months back but am terrified of surgery so am looking for ways to manage it without going under the knife, if possible. Any advice you can provide based on your experience would be great. Thanks.

[@hardeoganness9505]

@@XYZUSER2007hi did you get the fistula rectifier

[@jeanamariemallay2728]

I'm in the same boat at 28... I'm petrified of ending up with a colostomy bag

[@lewis1180]

My surgeon is cold. I don’t feel safe with him. He has a temper. Dr. Chung, you are how doctors should be: care about their patients. ❤

[@smithakurup7435]

So true , listening patiently is the key which makes the patient so comfortable

[@alex8858]

Sameeeee here

[@FrostyAMC]

Yes my drs are cold too I’m going through this now I wish I had dr Chung

[@ahfkajhfk]

@@FrostyAMCsame here

[@FrostyAMC]

@@ahfkajhfk sorry to hear that it’s never fun stay strong

[@lubenton2004]

I have my anal fistula sureory done after suffering it over a year. It was so bad and really lowered my life quality. Now, it feels better. Remember to keep your anal clean always.

[@divinely111]

Are you okay now .is it recurring after surgery?

[@lanhoang6502]

You sound so kind! Thank you so much for the great information about such a sensitive topic. Keep doing videos, I support you

[@pushbackmedia9418]

Great video !! Excellent message !! We need more doctors like dr Chung !! Spreading love ❤️ hope !! 💥🫶

[@dirkkoetter72]

Great series of videos on a not-so-pleasant subject. I've been enlightened by Dr. Chung's clips! I lived with my fistula for four years. It was tolerable at first, but as the years went on, the cycle of burst/drain/heal became more frequent, and started to get painful. This month (8/2022) I had a fistulotomy. Recovery took about 10 days. I had a sore butt-cheek, I learned all about sitz baths, I got to experience wearing Depends for about 3 days (not so bad), and i went through a few Motrin! I am now a proud owner of a seton - which was weird at first, but I don't even notice it now. Am I glad I did it? YES. The tract is now open 24/7 and clearing. No more painful big blood blister forming on my butt anymore, ready to painfully burst at any moment. I can wear khaki pants again!

[@MC_Elie]

Sir I am planning to also get a fistulotomy. How much does it cost and does it hurt when you defecate? I had an operation to rid of Fournier's Gangrene and this is possibly from a pernineal abscess that closed. Please help, thank you. I am so worried about the expenses because it was so hard to bounce back due to this pandemic.

[@deepanshu1456]

​@@MC_Eliehow are u now .how was your surgery?

[@cherylmccauley6988]

Me too

[@lindaford6169]

My GP has a personality very similar to yours. It is MUCH easier for us to talk about uncomfortable topics when we feel like our physician cares and listens. Thank you for being YOU!!!!!!

[@eufelotacan7107]

You are amazing....the stress i felt was relieved...i sometimes tell my kids of things they will do when I'm gone...I thought this condition is very serious...now I'm at peace....i have it but its getting along with me well and it doesn't bother my daily activities...I thank God for you Dr.Godbless you

[@zabibyemane6608]

Doctor the best way living life is not being slave to the money listening to you you are not. You are remarkable man I appreciate your kindness I know you sleep well at night because you don't wreck people life blessing to all your family and your loved ones thank you once again

[@cenclamebro1078]

I was struggling with constipation for 5 years but i didn’t bother thinking it was normal. Usually there would be a burning sensation for half hour and then gone, until one day it started to burn for the entire day. I went to the doctor and he told me its fistula, and thats when i realized this fistula had come 1-2 years back. Since then i tried eating/skipping all types of food. I even went full vegan but the constipation stayed. Sometimes it took me 30-45 mins applying full pressure just for the stool to pass thru. And there was bleeding as well. Then a friend recommended me to meet someone who does accupuncture. The guy suggested 1. Take ginger tea with honey in empty stomach. 2. Eat only when u r hungry. 3. Drink only when u r thirsty(if u r not thirsty it means u r not moving enough) 4. Eat only one-third of your stomach. 5. No drinking within 30mins before food or within 1 hr after food. 6. Drink water in small sips.Don’t gulp the entire thing. 7. Try to move as much as possible. 8. No food after sunset.(I MEAN ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!!.ONLY WATER) My bowel movement has been much better since then, the fistula is still there but hopefully inshaAllah it will cure. I have slowly introduced meat and chicken into my diet and its been fine. May Allah almighty cure all your ailments and give u quick relief.

[@Twinski98]

How is it now

[@MilesMorales-d1u]

I would say that's what I experienced. I was having a high protein diet was ignoring fibre content. I was having constipation issues and burning sensation. I didn't realise till last month that it's cause of anal fistula

[@Juststayhopeful]

😢

[@deepanshu1456]

How are you now bro ??

[@nuwaz5651]

After thousand of Video. I really found humble and an Honest doctor.Love from India.

[@prashantkamble9443]

Bhai surgery karana hai ya nahi please reply

[@mani_12544]

​@@prashantkamble9443kshar sutra from a good doctor

[@b0ngb0ng8]

been searching all over the internet and I can say that you really clarify everything Doc. been living with this fistula for over 10 yrs now its just closed by itself no drains but i can feel the channel still there. thank you Doc.

[@Samuel126891]

Hi, I’m from Ethiopia. And we had lot of same case in here, there is this doctor who has very good reputation in this area. He did help a lot of patients including my friend and he did get better never had any issue. He always try to identify the channel before he decides to go through surgery so he can take it out entirely. After the surgery, The wound has to heal from inside out. If your surgeon missed small channel or (after surgery)the top/upper wound heal first, the infection will come back. Sorry for my English.

[@XYZUSER2007]

Hi Dr. Chung, will you please consider making a video on fistula laser surgery? It would be really great to hear your perspective on its post operative recovery, risks, success rate etc. Thanks much!

[@VRS169]

Please and thanks

[@jakesambajon9642]

Please i want to know it too

[@patrickarland6795]

Yes doctor how can laser surgery help in case of anal fistula

[@PeymanT-ov4ux]

Yes it is not clear. Some say very good some say no

[@nothing-ye7bw]

Please give info on laser????? 🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@XYZUSER2007]

I found out about this youtube channel from another health forum and I am so glad I did! I have been consulting with numerous doctors since my fistula diagnosis 3 months ago and this is by far the best information I could get. You have such an amazing attitude and positive vibes - thank you Dr. Chung!

[@muggaphilly2072]

What happened with your fistula did you get surgery or no?

[@XYZUSER2007]

No, I did not go for surgery. It does not have any infection or symptoms anymore (except for some occasional itching); I just watch my diet now to make sure it remains under control.

[@iambeleiver2128]

I was so worried about my mom who has the exact situation from last 2 years...I was so so worried about it before....Thank you so so much doctor !!

[@RavW1776]

As a medical journalist and now a technical medical editor (combined for 17 years) -- I have spent much of my professional life interviewing doctors or nurses about X condition. I so LOVE the nuance you bring to this question, as well as the fact you are willing to NOT advocate 100% to just jump to surgery! It reminds me of one observation about the broader medical world that is a fair critique, which is this: "Patient X notices X symproms. She goes to a rheumatologist who suggests a rheumatological solution; she goes to an orthopedist, they suggest an orthopedic solution; and go to a SURGEON? They always have SURGICAL solution!" In my personal life when talking with people I care about, and I find out some surgeon has suggested some type of surgery -- I IMMEDIATELY feel my alarm bells raise and (assuming they are game), I begin grilling them: WHOM they have seen (as far as types of doctors)? Did the surgeon volunteer or mention NON-SURGICAL options or even mentioned how crucial it was they have the surgery? And then what are the greatest RISKS? I have all the respect in the world for surgeons; I wouldn't have left childhood healthy w/o surgery; nor would my daughter or I be here w/o modern C-sections. But too many surgeries are done that are not only NOT necessary -- but they impose unnecessary risks for truly marginal benefits! One example I recall reading in my journalism days was when studies began coming out showing that a fairly high % of stent-implants cardiac surgeons had done in the prior two decades had NOT really been necessary, nor improved the longevity of a sufficient % of the patients to warrant many of them. It was almost like there was a "surgical fad" where this became the automatic cure-all for people once some arterial sclerosis (clogging of heart arteries) was noticed -- but then decades later, enough broad scale (or "meta-analases") had been done to throw SO MANY of all those MAJORLY scary and invasive surgeries into question! (And sorry: Good journalists always quote their sources, but all I can say is: "It was an article I read on the AP News wire, or edited in a job, over 20 years ago." I've edited WAY too many med stories to possibly remember more than this!) I have no personal reason to subscribe to your channel but I will DEF remember who you are if I or any loved one has a problem in this area of the body. You are a very rare, nuanced physician who CLEARLY isn't rushing to just line your (or your institution's) pockets with big bills to insurance companies (and which raise the cost of health care for everyone.) Thank you for truly following the Hippocratic Oath! [Nope, not the American-style one: "Thou Shalt Do No Harm ... Unless You Can Make A Lot of Money Out of It" -- but the REAL Hippocratic Oath! :) ] You model the great nuance the broader medical system needs!

[@Chetangowda_gowda]

Now it's 2 months since surgery... Still recovering. Things helped me feel better after surgery, 1. Sitz bath with crystal salt 6 to 7 times in a day and immediately after using toilet. 2. Lots of water intake. Like liters of water though not thirsty 3. Around half kg of fruits consumption everyday, includes Mainly lots of banana (like 4 or 5 bananas a day), little portion of custard apples and musk melons. 4. Lots of steamed vegetables consumption without spices. Vegetable includes green beans , radish, beetroot, cucumbers. 5. strictly no alcohol... Big no. 6. Avoid excessive physical work..and avoid long motorcycle rides or so. 7. Regular small walks and Yoga everyday. 8. Avoid spice and salty food Above are helping me to recover day by day. But it's a long term process. These above may help others like me but pls take surgeon or doctor suggestions before following points I listed above.

[@MT-qq1rq]

Dr Chung, You give the patients an unbiased take on whether surgery is necessary or not. As you mentioned all the internet and literature all say must have surgery in order to avoid possible complications later such as developing sepsis and can damage your organs if left untreated. If one takes this possible consequences and scare for their lives then the only option for them is to have surgery but surgery also has its own risks. So it's good to hear that if the fistula is stable and uncomplicated, then it is ok to just leave it alone as long as it is not negatively impact your quality of life. Thanks so much for making this valuable and unbiased point of view video to the people who is stressed out about their fistula problem.

[@sanpat2220]

I am scared now I have one and scared to get a surgery.

[@MT-qq1rq]

@@sanpat2220 Don't be scared. If it negatively affects your quality of life, then go for the surgery.

[@Jharieltravel]

I dont think it will not affect your daily life when you have this fistula.. Definitely it will as you wont able to tolerate the pain when you have the abscess. Same w my husband at first he ignored it bcoz. It doesnt give so much pain yet but sooner or later the abscess will get bigger and inflamed you wont be able to seat so it will affect your daily life. He went for consultation and found out that its a fistula right away he was scheduled for surgery. Proctologist suggested a seton rubber to place in his anus for drainage then later after 3 mo he will go for 2nd surgery. Waiting for his 2nd surgery next wk

[@ameernasri9761]

​@@Jharieltravel plz which u advise

[@ishiiiiiiii406]

​@@Jharieltravelhow is ur husband now ? How is his fistula?

[@ramapsvempati3840]

THANK you DOCTOR for giving an whole ideology of the fistula my mother has this n she got this 2 months back and we couldn't able to understand what it was watching ur previous videos and this got an overview of what it is exactly thank u for ur kind suggestion and thank u for investing ur time in this. People need more doctors like you that can stand by patient n explain what exactly the problem is and what's the solution they can opt for thank you 😊 🙏🙏

[@user-dk1pi1bz2x]

So glad I saw this really made me feel 100x better very informative and very knowledgeable

[@jeremyfehlig7121]

I found a surgeon at a military hospital since I'm active duty army and a big part of why I chose him was he reminded me of Dr Chung, he took my issue very seriously and genuinely seemed like he cared about my pain and situation. Thanks Dr Chung for being a shining beacon of what is right in a surgeon.

[@jasonsnow2969]

Thank you, Doctor, just what I wanted to hear, you really took a load off my shoulders, I really appreciate it.

[@earcandiee5888]

I just googled your office. I live about 1.5 hrs away from the OC, but am seriously considering making an appointment as I am at my wits end. I am willing to stay in a hotel nearby. I'm that desperate. I'm so very glad I found you on KZbin.

[@PeymanT-ov4ux]

What happened did you go there?

[@V13-u1c]

I wish I lived that close! I'm on the East Coast and certainly would have him as my doctor if I could afford to get there. I think you'd be in great hands with DR Chung!!!

[@vanhelsing3225]

After searching hundreds information about Fistula Anal on the internet, I finally found this very2 helpful information. I really feel grateful for your kind sharing and opinion Doc. My situation is same as the person you were telling about. Thank you so much.

[@95swappedsi]

Thank you for your video. My 13yo son was diagnosed with Chron's disease a while back. He currently has a seaton in place, for maybe 7mos now. His GI and Surgeon are pushing for biologic treatments. Won't even consider removing the seaton without being on biologics for at least 3mos. I do not think we want to commit to biologics at 13 until forever, until they stop working, or new treatments are developed. The potential side effects of the biologics scare me also. I has asked for his bloodwork be done just to see how it compared to when he was in the hospital, and every time I was met with "we will do it when we do the infusions". Finally the surgeon, seemingly frustrated, ordered blood work. His c-reactive protein was 0.30 vs 1.08 and his SED rate was 14, which is high as the top of the range is 10, but down from 31 when he was in the hospital.... I am frustrated and don't feel that biologics should be where we are at this point.

[@kathcares]

Always great to hear your perspective. I was wondering if you have considered doing a Bottom End 101? There are so many things in your videos I never knew about this topic, and I wish I had known before I had a problem (and before I spent years freaking out about it). It would be great to educate people before they have an embarrassing problem, and it would give them comfort to understand the way their body works. It would also help them describe any future problems to their doctor. You are so warm and friendly speaking about this difficult subject! I would love to hear more about how to make lifelong friends with my bottom end, and how to avoid (for as long as possible) having to see a guy like you (no offense!).

[@yourfriendlyproctologist]

A great idea! I have thought about this. The only thing is that video would probably be about 10 days long and no one would probably have the patience to sit through the whole thing. I believe the small topics answering questions will have to do for now.

[@loftysub]

@@yourfriendlyproctologist Please make that full video also. Describe things that you want to convey from your heart. Many have patience to hear also. Please make that video.

[@joemeloja6898]

Hello Dr chung i have a fistula and now im planing to get surgery because im bothering if its going to cancer..but i watch your explanation I think i dont need to under go surgery because they not afect my daily life..thankyou for the info Dr chung😊

[@Angrypolack]

I really appreciate you doctor. You have a very realistic approach to this issue and your critical thought approach is much needed.

[@babylala9]

This video completely changed my view!! After total colectomy and J-pouch surgery for UC, I have had anal abscess past 10 years. I never paid too much attention to it. I have it about 3 times a year. Pain is minimal. I don't get a fever or fatigue. It's always the same area. It is only painful with touch or bide water sprays that spot. There is no pain in normal activities like walking, sitting, exercising, etc. It goes away in a week. My life is not affected by this. My life is not ruined by this. After watching this video, I have decided not to go for surgery. I was afraid of developing cancer but you said only 1%!!!!!! That's so rare! Even if I get cancer, I rather die with cancer in a few years rather than live the next 50 years till death with incontinence!!! That's the total loss of quality of life!! That means diapers 24/7, no swimming, no beach vacations, restricted style of clothing, always conscious and prevents social life!!!! Thank you so much for this information. I searched internet for hours for days and you are the only person with this information! I can not thank you enough!!!!!! I will pay close attention when I have abscesses from now on. I will keep a diary, take photos, and record any unusual things. Then I will know when to seek surgery. For now, I am so happy to know that I don't have to go through surgery. You saved my life, not an understatement!! Why others don't talk about this????? Thanks, millions!!!!

[@jcalbay2911]

Thank u doc i have fistula for 8 years. After watching ur video i dont think getting a surgery. All the think u said is may experience for 8years.

[@arjaybolanio7750]

Hi JC, are you pinoy?

[@bobby4395]

How are you bud? Is it any better?

[@SimoSimsim-n4f]

I feel comfortable after I saw your video. Thank you so much

[@vallzawinkz8383]

Since I had a fistula, I lost my confidence. I lost my 12 hours job bcos i been spending too much time to redressing the hole every 3 hours.😢 My boss has decided I'm not physically fit to work . Now I have been jobless for few months.

[@NailsDogg]

I think your best doctor going through these haemorrhouids

[@albertvalerio8790]

Doc. Im from the Philippines, im hoping you can help my father with his fistula, his 63 years old and we are praying that God will give him a longer life. We are hoping with your help he will get better.

[@LOVELYEBONIA]

PLEASE PLEASE DOCTOR DO A SEPARATE VIDEO ABOUT WHAT FOODS OR ANY INTAKE AND ACTIVITY TO AVOID WHEN YOU ARE ONE OF THE PATIENTS LIVING WITH FISTULA SINCE FOR NOW I HAVE ANY PLAN TO UNDERGO A SURGERY. Tia🙏

[@LOVELYEBONIA]

Or to make it simple , HOW TO MANAGE, or HOW TO LIVE WITH FISTULA?

[@jimjharielgreekpinaycouple8196]

My husband have Anal Fistula, he went for 1st surgery last Dec for placement of seton rubber. It was very painful and he has a big abscess b4 the surgery the seton help him to drain the abscess. He's in his 2nd month now having this rubber in his butt and im helping him to change dressing everyday as theres a lot of fluid coming out from this 2nd hole in his butt. The doctor said will take 2to3 mo to heal the inside and he will go for next surgery for LIFT procedure or Ligation of Fistula. Soon he will go for this 2nd surgery. This condition will really bother you as it cause so much pain you can't even seat. You will really need to seek for treatment to stop the pain and get rid of the abscess. Mind you the fluid coming out from your skin is smelly it will really affect your daily life!

[@GerardoHernandez-wy2pb]

My anal fistula would bleed after a year and a half it was quite a bit of blood so I went from my surgery I think it depends on the infection and how much blood is being pulled out from the fistula living with the one I don’t know about that surgery sucks I have mine but I’m not bleeding anymore

[@Jharieltravel]

@Tiyay Lovely i dont think u can live without surgery because the pain when you have abscess from fisfula was really painful (unbearable). You wont be able to seat. My husband went for seton placement last Dec and he will be on his 2nd surgery to ligate the fistula next wk after 3mo of his 1st surgery. Hopefully he can live normal again as it sucks to have this fistula.

[@Jharieltravel]

@@GerardoHernandez-wy2pb what procedure did they done to you? For my husband they place a Seton rubber for drainage then after 3mo he's scheduled for LIFT or LIGATION of this fistula to close the inner opening.

[@monishaparvin7521]

Wow you are really an amazing doctor who cares for their patient My father recently diagnosed with fistula .. Earlier he thought it was just a pimple like structures he went to our family doctor and without checking it properly just said it is due to my father's Diabetes. . Then within 10 days it appears to be something different .. My father went to another doctor and they told him its anal fistula .. It really got me worried but you really have some different opinion than others.. I hope he get well soon and starts living his good life .. And I'm a medical student just Completed my first proff exams, in future I will become someone like you

[@sagartripti]

How's your father now?

[@monishaparvin7521]

@@sagartripti He is doing good .. Last time I asked him ..which was last month .. He said .. There's a minor difference from his Normal healthy condition .. it healed with proper medication .. And maintenance .. He was advised to use warm water daily on the affected area .. If your patient is in the initial stage then .. Good medication with a proper diet which helps to get relief from constipation. .. and using warm water .. Will surely help

[@sagartripti]

​@@monishaparvin7521 So no surgery needed for it? I thought with fistula, there's no option other than surgery

[@monishaparvin7521]

@@sagartripti having a surgery is every individual's choice depending on their situation .. But to answer your question, Yes there are People out there doing good Without surgery by consistently taking good care of their health

[@Juststayhopeful]

​@@monishaparvin7521I've anal fistula since long time suffering I came to know few months before but he's scaring me to do surgery I can't do surgery now I've studies I'm very young for this pls suggest me died plan

[@MrCandyTsai]

Super helpful information! That's really answered many people's questions.

[@nonamenameno4788]

I have an anal fistula for already 13 years...and I'm just leaving it alone ever since.. the doctor is right, we can just leave it alone..it doesn't bother me anyway

[@chandrasekharprasuna4679]

Don't u have symptoms sir

[@nonamenameno4788]

@@chandrasekharprasuna4679there were times when it's inflamed and had pus,..and uncomfortable..but only occasionally, especially when i fart in an unfavorable position.. but those were 3 or 2 years ago, i no longer experience such things anymore..as if it's no longer in there

[@gamernorcal]

i just got one like 5 months ago. It has no pain, it just builds up and pops every 3 days or so. Is that what you had too? My doctor said to get surgery but I am scared.

[@nonamenameno4788]

@@gamernorcal yes, it's same with mine.. it builds up then just pops.. i just leave it like that...

[@gamernorcal]

@@nonamenameno4788 thanks for the information. is it annoying to live like that for 13 years? do you wear a pad? I keep wearing a pad daily just in case. Im afraid of it getting infected too but it's been 6months.

[@arafatbaunto4068]

I found I have fistula back in 2012 with only one while working based in UAE. Now 2022, still I didn't put my ass to any surgery even though my fistula become complex. I am already 38 years old with happy life carrying fistula but still it doesn't bother me despite some puss coming out. Our life is full of unpredictable, some people die at very young age, or some die in good shape naturally or accidentally, and human average life is 60 years if you are luck to reach that, and exceeding 60 years is considerable as gift from the Creator. So, everytime I think of it, I just ignore this FISTULA thing.

[@yourfriendlyproctologist]

LOL! I hope it helped.

[@sameer7465]

😂😂😂

[@divinely111]

What a positive and courageous approach to look at life ..wow sir❤

[@mavrabari8916]

Thanks Dr. Chung! I was first diagnosed with a perianal abscess in 2022, it burst on its own but then I kept having pus and blood discharge so had drainage and minor cutting of the fistula under general anesthesia. Surprisingly, the recovery was pretty easy but 6-8 months in, the discharge started again. No pain but seeing pus and blood all the time on the gauze is very scary. I just got a seton placed 4 days ago under general anesthesia and I have to say, my surgeon underplayed the pain, discomfort and recovery time SO MUCH! I am very uncomfortable and the pain is so strange. I have to travel for work in 4 days so feeling quite stressed. I wish I had done some personal research before getting the seton and done it after my travel. Even though my surgeon has suggested FLIP after some months, I think I need to really think deeply about the chances of risk and recurrence, these surgeries and general anesthesia are not easy!

[@bouzianielhadj29]

Thanks Doct... my history or my fistula it's for more than 20yrs.. yah and I keep going in my life without complications... I have 45 yes old. Well this is me and my fistula. Thanks again Doct.

[@pradip797]

What symptoms do you have

[@tamtinkaysutv4486]

Good day! My brother in law had 5 times surgery already and he has another fistula again, thanks God I found your KZbin channel and I share this to him. Thank you so much for your explanation and have a wonderful day!

[@lexvaldeznaraja1744]

For real.?

[@hardeoganness9505]

Is this true 5 times

[@Rosina2727]

yOU THINK THATS A LOT? i know of two women who have had 30 surgeries! yes 30! i will put an address at the top i suggest you visit a site i mention! You will be shocked at many of the messages! It is horrendous and a disgrace! I hate the NHS and all it stands for. they have put me through hell, and yes i have been told i have a fistula! It's cost me over £3,000 to look after an absess which they operated on and i've had to pay for everything myself! I am entitled to free prescriptions as well. I could cry! look further up, i will put this site on there, it is a brilliant site, but omg the poor people on there!

[@bryinasia]

Dr. Chung, thank you so so so much for making this video. I've had an anal fistula for the past 5 years andfFor the first few years, I've been tossed around by various doctors who kept referring me to see other people, and it wasn't until I went to a private hospital in Vietnam did they tell me for sure that I had a fistula. They suggested surgery if it didn't heal itself, but they didn't mention the things you mentioned here in this video, especially about the possibility of it returning and the complications with surgery. I didn't even realize that just living life normally with the fistula was an option! That being said, I wanted to clarify: when you said that the type of patient who doesn't need surgery is someone who's fistula doesn't cause them any problems or pain... does that include the occasional pimple pop? My fistula (maybe every few months or so) will swell with pus and looks exactly like a large pimple. Then it just bursts (sometimes by itself or sometimes because I prod it). Is that dangerous? Would you consider that a complication worth looking into? I also wanted to ask: does fistula surgery make the rectum "tighter"? As a gay man, I often receive anal sex and forums online have mentioned that fistula surgery makes having anal sex basically impossible. Is that true? Thank you very much again for making this video. I feel like I've learned so much here, than I had with my actual doctors 😭 I am much more at ease with my fistula now, knowing that overall it isn't a highly dangerous thing that could lead to cancer or something (er well, at least VERY UNLIKELY to lead to cancer). I feel like I should be paying you for all this information!!

[@waethlane5424]

Thank you Sir for your great video. Is laser a good and safe alternative compared to fistulectomy? Thanks

[@yourfriendlyproctologist]

great question! added to the list.

[@BritiniMartini]

I'm only 35 and this fistula surgery is ruining my life. I'm in pain constantly. Doc explained a draining Seton to me. She said it was just going to be like a piercing/loop hanging down. She said it would be painful for a few days then it would just be uncomfortable. But she went and put a cutting seton in! And didnt explain that one to me. When it started cutting into my flesh I thought there was something extremely wrong. I even told her, "its too tight! It's cutting into my flesh!" And she still didn't explain to me that's what it's supposed to do! She just said "its going to be uncomfortable," and sent me on my way. I just had a baby and I couldn't even sit to hold her/nurse her. Imagine having a newborn and not even being able to enjoy her without excruciating pain. After a month or so, I got a large abscess the size of a golf ball and went and just had the cutting drain removed cuz I was sick of it and I thought she did something wrong. (I had it taken out in the ER by whatever dr was on call) and he put a draining Seton in its place. I had it for over a year cuz I couldn't get myself to go see her again cuz surgery/recovery was excruciating and honestly i was traumatized. I recently went to a new Dr and had the drain removed and now I'm getting little abscesses again. She properly explained the cutting Seton to me and told me I need to put one back in and I just started crying cuz i can't do it again. I can't go thru that again! Recovery is the worst pain I've ever felt in my life! But I'm going to continue getting these abscesses if i don't. I wouldn't have removed the cutting one if the OG doc had properly explained to me that it was supposed to cut. Now i gotta do it all over again. But i really wish I had never gone and had the surgery in the first place. It was just draining a clear liquid that was quite annoying but at least I wasn't in excruciating pain. Now I'm basically incontinent and have to RUN to the bathroom the very second I feel a bowel coming on or ill 💩 my pants. All cuz of that stupid surgery. I wish she had explained to me how traumatic surgery is. How excruciating recovery is. How life changing it is. I would have never got it. So thank you for being honest. I feel some docs just want the money and push the surgery without explaining how bad it is. I'm not trying to scare anyone but people should know it is very painful. And if you're not able to lay there for weeks while it heals, I wouldn't do it.

[@amisha3748]

How long has it been since the surgery was done and what is the recovery period?

[@BritiniMartini]

@Amisha i think it depends if you get the draining or the cutting. I got the cutting over a year ago. I don't know how long it's supposed to take to heal cuz after a month or two of that cutting one in, I couldn't take it and had it removed. I think it's supposed to take 3-6 months. I'm not sure tho really. I'd ask your Dr. Just make sure they explain to you the difference between the cutting and the draining. The draining doesn't do much. Like a band aid. The cutting is excruciating. Every time it heals, you go in to get it tightened, then repeat until it cuts all the way thru you and falls off. It's a zip tie.

[@aishamsuya333]

@@BritiniMartinimh!😢

[@jamesdean738]

You are not alone Same here im a men 37 Got a surgery and like you i wish i never had this surgery… same situation you describe since thé surgery may 2023. I ll never get a surgery again until my live is in réal danger I had another abcès since and i succèd to treat it whith TEa tree essential oil and oregano essential oil… So Maybe it will help and avoid terrible surgery again … Good luck and take care !

[@BritiniMartini]

@jamesdean738 I'm so sorry 😞 I'm not going to get the cutting one again unless I absolutely have to. I'll just drain forever 😞 Gauze and desitin is expensive but I can't go thru that excruciating pain again. Especially when I have a toddler to chase around. Just wish I'd never done it.

[@laxmannegi9809]

Thank you doctor 😊. I got so scared thinking about surgery. You’re so cool. Thank you 😊

[@kinghadu9611]

WOW thanks doc, I have a fistula for like 3 years now, got it from a fissure that got infected. It doesn't really bother me sometimes it itches and when I scratch and squeeze in an angle some fecal matter comes out then it's good again for another 3 weeks. At first there was pus for like 2 months when the doctor cut open the abscess and drained it, lots and lots of pus. One day after 2 months all pus stopped magically and it's just the tiny hole that sometimes acts up with some slight yellow stuff but it's really a none issue for me. After 3 years I keep asking myself why the hell did I let this bother me so much? I read it can cause cancer and all sorts of insane issues and yet I am just fine and dandy. I am so happy you confirmed my suspicion that I can just live my life, yeah everything is a risk I agree but right now with the hospitals clogged up with covid I am better not even going there I am just better just leaving this thing alone since it's become only a slight life long annoyance to me where 99% of the time it is literally not even there. Thank goodness you uploaded this video and put my mind at ease. Now I know the truth about this condition and all the risks and factors at play.

[@rashibajwa2349]

Brother where you from please answer me and which hospital you treat

[@sanpat2220]

How are you doing now?

[@kinghadu9611]

@@sanpat2220 Doing tons better almost like its totally healed but it's not the fistula will always open back up every week but it's been like 5 years now and I ain't dead or nothing has gotten worse so I guess it's something to live with.

[@AquaFlowHubScripts]

@@sanpat2220 hello mine is almost 1 year now but im very thank full to this doctor and specially to god im still existing to this world it really doesn't bother after like 3 or 2 months it will comeback and i let it pop itself then it will comeback again.

[@AquaFlowHubScripts]

@@kinghadu9611 i kept it a secret because we don't have money for surgery im only 14 yrs old:(

[@kimrichelpaguirigan1190]

I have fistula for 7 yrs already but its really small and not tha big my life hasnt change im afraid aswell if i will have surgery maybe it make worst but since i watch this video oh im so thankful i dont need to go on surgery omg thankyou doc

[@gamernorcal]

I just got one about 5 mo ago and the doctor told me to get surgery this winter. Mine does not hurt and it just pops like every 3 days. Get blood out of it but I put a gauze there to catch it. Again no pain -is my situation similar to yours? I am really not looking forward to surgery.

[@marioflavin2141]

i have had an anal fissure for over 20 years i was told by GP at the time of diagnosis i would need surgery this has not been the case i know its there but does not bother me as you have said we not all need surgery its a personal choice thanks for providing me the answer i needed just going to live with it thanks..

[@gamernorcal]

I just got one about 5 mo ago and the doctor told me to get surgery this winter. Mine does not hurt and it just pops like every 3 days. Get blood out of it but I put a gauze there to catch it. Again no pain -is my situation similar to yours? I am really not looking forward to surgery.

[@111mallikarjun]

Thank you for explaining in detail. This really helps.

[@alonzomosley7]

You explained this very well ,my doctor did try to explain anal fistulas but confused me .You explained in layman's terms .Well done thank you .

[@lynnvettraino5949]

Thanks for your honesty❤😢

[@101620DAR]

Glad i found you. So informative

[@FOXYPEACH2]

Love your information and kind, soothing demeanor. Thank you!💖

[@rodenalba8119]

thanks doc chung. from philippines having this fistula. very healthy and relieving explation of you. very helpfull to us. more power to ue channel. Godbless

[@trebbuss4166]

You are so pleasant and informative. Thank you ♥️

[@sum2automation]

I'm going to make an appointment. After 6 months the pain is killing me.... and not improving :) my GP Dosen't have any idea what to do and we have no more good Dr's in my area 😒. Thanks for all your doing! Exciting information and truly helpful! Truly.

[@suwai.artwork]

Did you get help? What sort of treatment did you choose?

[@ameernasri9761]

I'm fasting and feel way way better

[@7a6-e9r]

Thanks Doc. Super helpful message..

[@catsarefancy9053]

Thank you so much for this video. It helped ease so many of my concerns.

[@alvinsee27]

Mine is more than 30 years. No surgery done.

[@shafeeqahmad6435]

But I have done one surgery but not cure ..... Have you use any remedies for fastula to get relief or cure

[@shafeeqahmad6435]

But I have done one surgery but not cure ..... Have you use any remedies for fastula to get relief or cure

[@gamernorcal]

has it bled for those 30 years or stopped sometime ago?

[@LouieLotlot]

Is the leakage is constant? How offen you change your gauze?

[@jeffreykuhns6581]

Very informative. I was told during a different health crisis (clogged bile ducts,non alcoholic pancreatitis, salmonella sepsis...31 days on a ventilator) that I had a small fistula that was missed by a top highly ranked university medical center in Pittsburgh but caught by a different test at small local health system. The surgeon that removed my gall bladder and fixed my billiary hernia did a further test and informed me that not only was it very small but he was in some degree of awe because compared to the previous test when they found the fistula that it had gotten smaller. It was shrinking. So I had the gall bladder and belly button surgery and I've been okay since. This all happen in the middle of 2020 in the thick of covid. Physically I think I've made a decent recovery but I have wondered about the fistula. Your video answers all of my questions. Thank you kindly sir.

[@Luvrenebebe]

Thsi is horrible ,,, glad to see you’re doing better. I also had gallbladder surgery through my bellybutton 😅 so you find yourself having pain on your right side where the gallbladder used to be when sleeping?i feel so sick when I sleep in my side!!!

[@MilesMorales-d1u]

Im a student who felt a bumb near the anal region few months and ignored it. Recently it burst open and when a general surgeon saw it, he said it's a fistula. I got a scanning done and got to know its a superficial fistula and an abscess has been formed. I was shit scared when i heard the term surgery cause im still a student and ill be having job placements soon. My parents howevere were calm and took me fo few other docs who said fistula surgery doesnt have 100 percent success rate. Recurrence chances are high. Ever since im eating high fibre and maintaining a low diet. Its been a month now. Drainage is less, but sometimes i feel pain pulses. I hope the pain gets lower and lower and i dont require any surgery

[@realcosmicworld]

Bro how are you now you did surgery or not i mean what happened now😢

[@jaypuropuro1941]

Good day Dr.Chung do you required your patient for MRI before you preform fistulolomy surgery thank you

[@yourfriendlyproctologist]

I do not.

[@cvrjam]

Thanks for this video doctor . One question . In case I have the kind of fistule you mentioned in this clip (The one that does not bother your way of life) what things we SHOULDNT do in order not to get this fistule worse ?

[@ad-hocmodeller5285]

12:25 very honest approach.

[@WillSoria-n4j]

Thank you for this video. This platform makes me feel I am not alone in this. This question is for Dr. Chung but also for ANYONE with experience and/or knowledge. Does an anal fistula attribute or cause erectile dysfunction? I need answers or leads to this puzzle, please.

[@tayyabjan6674]

Hi Doctor Chung, Thank you very much for the detailed video very very informative. I have the same issue for last 1.5 year but again have some confusions and need clarity please. some time have mild temperature, body pain and on specific area but not all the time. I had worries that it may lead to cancer which resulted in a lot of pressure on me and also have weak immune system at the moment. Secondly as a software developer, I had a routine of setting on rexine based sofas for long time which is not the case and can't sit even for one hour because of burning and inflammation all around the buttock. Just need to confirm is this all due to the Fistula or is something else. Looking forward for your kind guidance and thanking you in advance.

[@anandmayekar1513]

Very well explained, thankyou , Sir 🙏❤️🙏

[@geoffrey121148]

Thank you for your information. Over the years I’ve had hemorrhoids and surgeries to remove. I am now 76 for some reason I can’t clean my self and also I use baby wipes. Then next thing the stool works its way out so frustrating and can get very sore. My Dr is the same way and does not want to resolve my problem . He has prescribed an ointment that is made up by the pharmacy very expensive. This does not resolve the issue. Thank you for your help.

[@bluerosejones6881]

Thank you so much! You have helped me make some difficult decisions. Also I now have many questions for my surgeon.

[@philm3167]

Thanks doctor.You are heaven sent.

[@yourfriendlyproctologist]

I appreciate your words!

[@kittycat6195]

Thank you. My elderly friend has had these. He has has terrible infections that have turned into whole body battles. After major surgeries the darn fistulas, the last surgeon put in a red loop (like an earring to let the fistula remain open in order to always drain. Hopefully this will work well.

[@MarkKim-k1o]

I developed a very painful abscess in my teens which ended up bursting and turned into an anal fistula, although I didn’t know it at the time. I’m now in my 40s and the fistula is still there, but there’s no effect on quality of life and little to no drainage ever.

[@bash4374]

Hi. I'm so glad to hear that life goes on pleasantly. I had an abcess drained 6 weeks ago and found out yesterday that I have a fistula.... the anxiety is high I tell you. Thanks for sharing your story, I have hope now

[@NiteAqua]

How many times have you had it since the first?

[@13612]

I had fistula surgery yesterday, feels like a stick up inside at times and bad odor that is not fecal in smell. I said I wanted it out, so doc said he's not sure it's a fistula, but once he was in side he would decide how to address it. He said he wouldn't do a biopsy unless it looked suspicious and a biopsy was done. Now I worry it's not a fistula and something more. Seems like they could be more definitive without it being an exploratory surgery.

[@vonmarcomara]

An exelent answer doc thank u so much for the advice from philippines ❤

[@tenderpawsm473]

To Your Friendly Proctologist, Is there a difference between a cutting seton procedure, a draining seton, and a Two Stage Seton Fistulotomy? Are there THREE types of setons? I had the T.S.S.F. followed by a lay open fistulotomy a year later. It was believed that a small tract remained, but most of it was taken care of with the T.S.S.F.

[@stacie675]

Hi Doc, I absolutely love your content how long would you say is a normal time frame for a surgically, drained abscess to have leakage? Also, I was surprised when you commented that stool was a common part of leakage, I was under the impression that that means as a fistula.

[@JabezChronica]

Thank you for this insight Doc

[@generaljohn8357]

You are a great person. Thank you

[@FeelWell.]

Everyone should wash and stay in warm water for 20 min each time you go to tolilet....

[@ziawalizada5786]

Thanks a lot for your big help. God bless you Dr Chung 👍🕊🇦🇫

[@fajarishak8764]

Terima kasih atas informasinya dokter..sehat selalu

[@levierodriguez7784]

Very enligthening. Mine is 7 years now. I think i can live with it. I would have swelling and popping around evry two months in the same spot.

[@BryVan777]

How are you feeling now??? Any updates???

[@Blake_W4]

this video has me decide to live with my fistula.

[@billcrampton4476]

ive been told i have a fissure for roughly 2 years now only to find out that its been a fistula all along. be vocal with your doctor.

[@timothybolden250]

I’m 2 months post op it’s a very uncomfortable surgery first week sucks but it’s the best decision I’ve ever made. Having a draining fistula sucks and it’s painful.

[@ivandublin3057]

Hi! What type of surgery have you had? How many weeks did it take to heal completely and feel normal? When could you do exercises and feel confident? I was advised to get surgery by the military, which I'm applying for, but I'm afraid of the possible effects since I don’t feel any pain or discomfort from my fistula. Only inconvenience from puss, which is not present 90% of the time.

[@SabrinaPirnejad]

Do you have a video on a fistula healing over the wound? Should I get it fixed or should I just leave it alone?

[@almartinez37]

I’m here cause today I was diagnosed with this condition. It is very painful, I can’t believe people have lived for years with this condition.

[@thatcoolguyusaw]

It doesnt hurt for everybody

[@almartinez37]

@@thatcoolguyusaw Crazy to think that it doesn’t and people are able to live with it.

[@papa20117]

Very informative video 🙏🏼❤️👍

[@divinely111]

Whats the problem in surgery?? My doctor said surgery ia the only option ...he did my laser surgery...my fistula tract was connecting to my rectum making my poop filled with bloos and pus...but now theres no problem after surgery

[@atanudas7230]

Thanks doctor.... Lots of love from India..

[@paulkenney5846]

What’s up Doc, I have a question what do you think about TDH surgery? I just saw a video on it looks like it’s Not very invasive surgery. I love watching your videos very informative. Thank you Paul Kenney

[@awjake137]

Is leaving it alone an alternative to having a seton? And how long can you live with a seton? Thank you for your videos.

[@avijitbanerjee9050]

Sir, I suppose I am THE patient you are addressing... thanks a lot.

[@CTMPRODUCTIONSLLC]

Thank you for making the video. Have you heard of laser fistulectomy? I read that it has a 73% success rate...I couldn't find it in the US, only in Germany and Dubai. Just wondering. Thanks again for the video!

[@yourfriendlyproctologist]

I have heard of it. The jury is still out on which patients are suitable candidates.

[@ameernasri9761]

I'm think to travell to Dubai too for anal fistula

[@nicoletasima8784]

Wich operation is more good chirurgical or laser one thanks

[@rana5008]

Great job Dr.