How many days of hospitalization are needed after anal fistula surgery?

There is no uniform standard for the length of hospital stay after anal fistula surgery, which typically ranges from 5 to 12 days, depending mainly on the surgical method, wound healing progress, and presence or absence of complications. Minimally invasive procedures cause less trauma and allow faster recovery, resulting in shorter hospital stays; traditional surgeries or cases complicated by infections generally require longer hospitalization. A detailed analysis is as follows:

For patients undergoing minimally invasive procedures such as anal fistuloscopy, postoperative wounds are small and blood loss is minimal. Patients can usually get out of bed 2 to 3 days after surgery. If there is no wound exudate and pain has decreased by days 4 to 5, discharge may be arranged. These procedures have minimal impact on anal function and are associated with a shorter recovery period, allowing for earlier discharge.

Traditional incision and seton techniques involve manipulation of the sphincter muscles and result in larger wounds. Postoperative monitoring of seton removal and wound healing is required, leading to hospital stays typically lasting 7 to 12 days. If complications such as wound infection or bleeding occur, additional treatments including anti-infective therapy or hemostasis are needed, further extending the hospitalization period.

After discharge, patients should follow medical instructions for regular dressing changes, maintain wound cleanliness, and promote healing. Additionally, proper dietary management is important—opting for light meals, increasing fluid and fiber intake, and ensuring adequate rest.