How long does an anal fistula surgery take?

The duration of anal fistula surgery varies depending on several factors, including the surgical method, severity of the fistula, and the patient's individual condition. 1. Surgical Method: Anal fistula surgery includes procedures such as fistulotomy, seton placement, and video-assisted anal fistula treatment (VAAFT). Fistulotomy and seton placement are generally simpler procedures with shorter operating times, typically around 15 minutes. In contrast, VAAFT requires more precise surgical maneuvers and may take longer, approximately 30 minutes. 2. Severity of the Fistula: Simple, low-level fistulas may require only 10 to 20 minutes of surgery, whereas complex, high-level fistulas or those requiring seton techniques may take 40 to 60 minutes. 3. Patient Condition: The patient’s physical condition, specific disease status, and the complexity of the procedure also influence the duration. Patients in better health may have shorter operation times, while those with more complicated conditions or technically challenging surgeries may require longer procedures. Overall, the duration of anal fistula surgery ranges from 10 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the individual patient and the chosen surgical approach.