How to Recover from Fistula Surgery

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Fistula surgery is done to correct any abnormal channels between two organs or two blood vessels with a special focus on the anal and gastrointestinal tracts. This paper seeks to evaluate the recovery process of this surgery to facilitate the healing process and prevent adverse effects. Here, the following measures and guidelines are discussed to help a patient recover from fistula surgery.

Understanding Fistula Surgery

A fistula is an abnormal passage between two structures in the body including organs and blood vessels that is caused by infection, inflammation or injury. The treatment for fistula is to surgically close the fistula and ensure that the surrounding tissues are healthy. To know more about fistula surgery in Lahore refer to a general surgeon.

Immediate Post-Surgery Care

Following the surgery, patients are admitted to the hospital’s recovery ward to be observed for their vitals and any adverse reactions. Pain relief is offered with the help of medications. At home it is recommended not to work hard, or engage in any vigorous activities for several days. Begin with a soft food diet and slowly add other foods back into the diet. Intake of fiber rich foods and taking a lot of water can help in preventing constipation.

Wound Care

As any healthcare professional will tell you, it is imperative to take care of the wound. To avoid infection and keep the surgical area clean and dry, a warm water wash should be done after each bowel movement and the area should be patted dry with a soft towel. Other measures include taking baths several times a day to ease the surgical site as well as the healing process. As advised by your surgeon, continue to change the dressing, keep the area covered and protected as advised. Look for any redness, pain, heat or pus at the site of the incision and inform your physician if there is a change in the color, size or thickness of the wound.

Managing Pain and Discomfort

Controlling pain and discomfort is one of the most important aspects of any recovery process. Adhere to the prescribed pain relief medications and for over the counter medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, one should seek the advice of the doctor before using them. If antibiotics are given to prevent infection, the patient should take the whole course as advised. Do not engage in any tasks which involve lifting of heavy objects, vigorous exercises or any other activity that might apply pressure on the operated area. One should use cushions or pillows to make sitting more comfortable and to ease the pressure that is on the affected area.

Follow-Up Appointments

Follow up appointments may be needed in which your surgeon will assess the healing process and may change your treatment plan as and when necessary. It is advised to report any sustained pain, fever, or other abnormal symptoms to your healthcare provider and adhere to your surgeon’s post-operative regimen to the letter.

Lifestyle and Diet

Adhering to a proper diet and exercise regimen is helpful for the patient. Ensure that you take foods that are rich in fiber like fruits, vegetables, and whole grain foods to ease bowel movements. Ensure that you take a lot of water to help in the potty and to avoid cases of constipation. Gradually return to the NORMAL activities depending on your feeling and the advice from your surgeon. Light walking is beneficial to increase blood flow and can be useful in helping to recover, but it is advised not to engage in strenuous activities until the affected area is completely healed.

Emotional and Psychological Support

Mental health also needs to be considered as well when one is recovering from an illness or from an injury. Those can include deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to help reduce the level of stress the patient experiences. Turn to relatives and friends to talk about one’s feelings and problems. If you have anxiety or depression concerning your situation or the recovery process, you should consult a professional counselor. Support groups are also helpful for people who have been through similar surgeries for the purpose of comfort and relating to other people.

Conclusion

After fistula surgery, one has to adhere to certain practices regarding wound care, pain relief, diet, and doctors’ instructions. Thus, adhering to these guidelines and ensuring that there is a follow-up visit in a certain interval, the patient can achieve healing and proceed back to his/her daily activities with few adverse effects. Remember that this is not a substitute for your doctor’s advice and guidance, which is why it is best to always consult with your healthcare provider. You can get fistula surgery in Islamabad by visiting a hospital or healthcare facility in the area.