Laser · FiLaC
An optical fiber delivers energy within the tract to close it from the inside out. It preserves continence, avoids incontinence and offers much less pain and faster recovery than open surgery or fistulotomy.
Anal fistula specialist in Guadalajara and Zapopan
Minimally invasive anal fistula treatments that also consider anal sphincter function
The tract and its relationship to anal sphincter muscles guide the most appropriate technique.
Dr. Eduardo Navarro LaraColorectal surgeon · Anal fistula assessment
Treatment options
Advanced technology for minimally invasive anal fistula treatment
We offer advanced technology to treat different anal fistulas minimally invasively. Laser, VAAFT, plugs, platelet-rich plasma and hybrid techniques also consider sphincter function.
Other pathways depending on the tract and infection
Controlling active infection
With an abscess, infection care comes first. Managing that stage does not necessarily replace later fistula treatment.
Opening the tract
Some tracts can be opened to promote healing. Their sphincter relationship determines whether this is appropriate.
Staged or sphincter-preserving treatment
Complex fistulas may need controlled drainage, staged procedures or techniques treating the tract while preserving as much function as possible.
After assessment, the doctor explains relevant options, goals, limitations and follow-up.
For selected fistulas, 360° endoanal ultrasound can show the tract and its sphincter relationship. It is not mandatory for everyone.
Explore laser and modern anal fistula techniques Schedule a consultationSigns worth assessing
Recurrent drainage or an opening near the anus may indicate a fistula
Symptoms may settle temporarily and then return.
- Recurring pus or fluid near the anus
- A small skin opening or spot
- Irritation, moisture or itching around the area
- Pain or tenderness of varying intensity
- Recurrent swelling
- Previous anorectal abscess
These signs guide consultation, but examination is needed to identify the cause.
Understand the difference between fistula and abscessAnal fistula and anorectal abscess
Fistulas and abscesses are related but different
An abnormal channel connecting the anal canal to nearby skin. It may follow an abscess if a tract stays open, although causes vary.
A collection of pus from infection, often painful and swollen, that may need prompt care.
Seek urgent medical attention if you have fever, severe pain, increasing swelling or redness, or feel unwell. These may indicate active infection.
What an anal fistula is
A fistula tract can sustain drainage and irritation
A fistula usually has an opening inside the anal canal and another in nearby skin. While connected, discharge, swelling or discomfort may recur.
Location and course vary. Some fistulas are direct; others cross or surround muscles controlling bowel function. Understanding the tract is central to assessment.
Consultation with a colorectal surgeon
Consultation assesses the tract and defines the next step
Dr. Eduardo Navarro reviews symptom onset and changes, previous abscesses or treatment and impact on activities. Focused examination looks for openings and the tract's course.
Some cases need imaging to define the tract, particularly complex, recurrent or poorly delineated fistulas.
- 01
Review of symptoms and history
Assessment considers onset, recurrent drainage and previous treatment.
- 02
Focused examination
Findings help identify the opening and assess the tract's course.
- 03
Explaining findings
You will learn what was found and the next investigation or treatment steps.
Treatment decision
What determines anal fistula treatment
Treatment aims to resolve the fistula while considering sphincter function.
The tract's course
Its route and opening locations matter.
Its sphincter relationship
These muscles control gas and bowel movements.
Complexity
Fistulas may have branches, multiple openings or previous recurrence.
Infection
An active abscess can change care priority and stages.
Cause and history
Inflammatory diseases, prior treatments and other conditions can change the strategy.
Assessment combines these details to choose treatment suited to the tract, not visible symptoms alone.
Specialist care
Assessment by a colon, rectal and anal specialist
Dr. Eduardo Navarro Lara is a colorectal surgeon treating colon, rectal and anal conditions, including anal fistulas.
His training and surgical experience support tract assessment, explanation of alternatives and planning according to individual findings.
Explore Dr. Eduardo Navarro's trainingReviews translated from Spanish. Read the originals on Doctoralia.
Public reviews
Experiences involving fistulas and abscesses
Public patient reviews about their care and experience.
Read all reviews on DoctoraliaReview 1 of 3
Experiences and outcomes may vary from person to person.
Care for patients throughout Guadalajara, Zapopan and the metropolitan area
Schedule your consultation at either of our two Zapopan locations
Choose between Unidad Médica Shakespeare and Torre de Consultorios Hospital Ángeles Andares. Our support team will help you confirm the location and availability.
Unidad Médica Shakespeare
Zapopan, Jalisco · In-person consultations by appointment.
Torre de Consultorios Hospital Ángeles Andares
Zapopan, Jalisco · In-person consultations by appointment.
Frequently asked questions
Answers to help you decide your next step
Does an anal fistula always follow an abscess?
Not always. Many follow infection or an abscess, but other causes exist. Assessment identifies the origin and tract features.
Can an anal fistula hurt?
Yes. It can cause pain, tenderness, irritation or swelling. Some people mainly have recurrent drainage and changing discomfort.
How is an anal fistula confirmed?
Assessment starts with symptoms, history and focused examination. Complex or recurrent cases may need imaging to define the tract.
Are all fistulas treated alike?
No. Course, complexity, sphincter relationship, infection and previous treatment change the choice.
Is treatment always completed in one procedure?
Not necessarily. Some fistulas need one procedure; others need infection control or staged treatment.
Can a fistula return?
Yes. Recurrence risk varies with fistula type, complexity, cause and treatment.
Do I have to explain symptoms via WhatsApp?
No. WhatsApp can be used just for times and location. Symptoms, history and clinical details are discussed in consultation.
Can I request assessment without a diagnosis?
Yes. Consultation identifies the cause, checks for a fistula or another problem and establishes the next step.
Take the next step
Schedule an anal fistula assessment
Care for patients in Guadalajara, Zapopan and the metropolitan area. See Dr. Eduardo Navarro at either of our two Zapopan locations. Our support team can help you choose a location and confirm availability.