How long does an anal fistula surgery take?

The duration required for anal fistula surgery varies depending on the surgical method, severity of the condition, and individual differences. Generally, for low-positioned and mild cases of anal fistula, such as those treated with fistulotomy or seton placement, the surgery time is relatively short, usually completed within approximately 15 to 20 minutes. These methods include directly cutting open the fistula or using rubber bands for slow dissection, and are characterized by simple procedures and shorter duration. However, for complex anal fistulas involving multiple fistulous tracts, multiple external openings, or even multiple internal openings, the surgical procedure may be more complicated. Techniques such as video-assisted anal fistula treatment or fistulectomy may be required, sometimes combined with seton therapy. These surgeries may take longer, typically ranging from 30 to 60 minutes or even longer. Therefore, the exact duration of anal fistula surgery should be determined according to the patient's specific condition and the surgeon's judgment. The postoperative recovery period also varies depending on the severity of the disease and the type of surgery performed, generally requiring 2 to 3 weeks, while complex cases may require 1 to 2 months or even longer. Patients should communicate sufficiently with their surgeon before surgery to understand the surgical plan and expected recovery time.