Will an anal fistula that resolved spontaneously after several years recur?
Disease description:
Although my anal fistula has been present for over a decade, it has now healed. May I ask: if an anal fistula resolves spontaneously after many years, can it still recur?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Cheng Yicheng
A fistula-in-ano that has resolved spontaneously after several years may still recur. Recurrence is more likely if one neglects dietary health—such as frequently consuming spicy or irritating foods—and fails to maintain proper local hygiene and care. Should recurrence occur, initial management may involve traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) fumigation therapy to alleviate symptoms, followed by fistulotomy surgery for definitive treatment, thereby facilitating recovery.
