Anal fissure

​An anal fissure refers to a tear or an ulcer (open sore) in the lining of your anal canal, causing pain during your bowel movements. This canal constitutes the last part of your large intestine, and is located between your rectum (which stores stool) and the opening in your bottom where you pass stools. Injury may be caused by passing a hard stool, or repeated diarrhoea. Anyone can get an anal fissure, even young and otherwise healthy people.

Mostly anal fissures heal within a few days or weeks with non-operative treatments that can be taken with comfort at your home. However, if you have an anal fissure that has not healed within eight to twelve weeks (a chronic fissure) and has persistent symptoms, it may require surgery.

The Section of Gastroenterology at The Aga Khan University Hospital, is well equipped to treat anal fissures and is highly trained in performing surgical treatments that are in line with international standards. 

When to seek expert advise

You should seek the advice of your doctor if you notice any symptoms that can be associated with an anal fissure or that are causing you discomfort.  Some people are hesitant to seek help about an anal fissure or symptoms because they are embarrassed or shy. There is no reason to be embarrassed as doctors are used to seeing cases of anal fissures. The doctors at the Aga Khan University Hospital will do their best to make the process as comfortable for you as possible. They will be able to give you expert treatment and advice to help alleviate your symptoms and reduce the chances of a recurrent fissure.