Does an asymptomatic anal fistula require surgery?

Even if anal fistula is asymptomatic, surgical treatment is still recommended. This is because anal fistula can only be completely cured through surgery, preventing its progression or worsening. Without surgery, the condition may gradually develop into a complex anal fistula, increasing the difficulty of treatment. The presence of an anal fistula may trigger acute episodes at any time, causing local redness, swelling, severe pain, and even affecting the pelvic region; therefore, early intervention is crucial. Early surgery not only allows for faster recovery but also involves lower surgical complexity, thereby reducing both patient suffering and economic burden. Hence, regardless of whether symptoms are present, patients should undergo surgical treatment as early as possible to ensure complete cure of the disease.