Is there an alternative for fistula surgery?

QI

am 52 years old and have a small fistula in my anal region. It was diagnosed by two doctors and both suggested surgery. Can I wait for a while or can it be cured with medicine? Please advise.

— Anonymous

AYou

seem to have an anal fistula ( fistula- in- ano). This does not heal with medicines and surgery is needed. Depending on the type or level of fistula tract, either laying the fistula open ( fistulotomy) or a seton insertion is performed.

If you have a recurring problem, you need to be evaluated for both illnesses, Crohn’s and intestinal tuberculosis, which can cause recurrent anal fistulae.

QI am 55 years old and suffer from the problem of urinating frequently at night. What are the medical diagnoses that must be done if it is prostrate?

— Abdul Khadir

AYou

need to see a urologist who will evaluate whether this is due to prostrate or another condition. It is also important to check whether you experience any pain while urinating. Your medical history, physical examination and rectal examination are important.

For the diagnosis of prostrate ailments the following tests are important:

Urine test ( urinalysis) and uroflowmetry ( testing the speed of turination).

In some cases, serum prostate- specific antigen ( PSA) test is done to help rule out prostate cancer ( prostate cancer and BPH are not related, but they can cause similar symptoms).

Ultrasound imaging to assess size of the prostate, its effect on the bladder, kidneys, etc.

Kidney function tests to assess any damage to the kidneys.