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Perianal fistula external opening slowly changing location?

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ElleA
ElleA

I had a perianal abscess this past July and ended up getting an I&D July 27th. Which then turned into a fistula. I was offered a lay open procedure but decided until after I conceive to do it since I don't want anything getting in the way of my current trying to conceive journey and the daily drainage is manageable atm. But I've been noticing the opening, which was originally more I'm the middle of the perianal region, has migrated to about a centimeter from my anus. At this rate the fistula hole might end up more inside the anus which freaks me out. Is this normal? Would it get worse if it keeps moving in that direction? Does this mean it's healing? The drainage gets better/less with each passing month and I'm on month 8 now. I know they can exist for years but it's moving so wtf? Thanks for reading!

1 like, 2 replies

2 Replies

  • UGH81241
    UGH81241 ElleA

    Posted

    ElleA- I don’t have any advice for you, but if it’s moving, I’d be worried that it may be branching out or shifting internally? Or maybe it’s slowly getting more superficial which would be good. Did the doctor say how long recovery would be if you did the lay open procedure- I’m assuming fistuloty? My worry would be that the fistula would become complex over time and laying open would no longer be an option. I went in for a simple fistulotomy and woke up with draining seton as it went through too much muscle and had to have the LIFT procedure 6 weeks later. It may be worth it to go ahead and have the lay open procedure to be done with it? But I completely understand not wanting to mess up trying to conceive. My advice would be to consult your doctor about why it may be moving and then go from there. 
    • ElleA
      ElleA UGH81241

      Posted

      Since drainage has gotten less and less over the months I can only hope it's becoming more superficial!  But yes, you're right- it could be getting more complex inside.  Thank you for your reply, I'll definitely think more on it.

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