The Columbia Anal Fistula Center is here to bring you top-quality care from world-leading experts in colorectal and anal conditions. Anorectal fistulas are a common and frustrating problem that can significantly affect quality of life.
Anal fistulas usually occur after an anorectal abscess that develops due to infection in the glands within the anal canal lining that secrete mucus. This process is similar to how acne develops on the skin. Anorectal fistulas can cause daily discomfort and pain. When left untreated, anal fistulas can lead to repeated infections and abscesses. The Columbia Anal Fistula Center offers relief for people suffering from anal fistulas by giving multiple surgical options, delivered with the highest quality of care.
Surgery is the only option for curing anal fistulas. Different procedures can be used, however success rates depend on the type of procedure, the skill of the surgeon performing the operation, the center where it is done and the specific disease process the patient might have. The surgeons at the Columbia Anal Fistula Center have extensive experience performing every fistula procedure and have a high rate of success with all fistulas, no matter the level of complexity.
Fistulotomy, seton placement, rectal advancement flap repair, and LIFT procedures are performed by our surgeons and are individualized to the patient depending upon the nature and location of the fistula. We work under the guidance of our director, Dr James Church , who was instrumental in building one of the most reputable colorectal division in the world at the Cleveland Clinic over nearly four decades and has now come to Columbia to pass his expertise on to a new generation of surgeons.
They have all been proctored by Dr Church and co-manage patients under his guidance. Cary B. Aarons, MD book an appointment online Β». James M. Usama Ahmed Ali, MD book an appointment online Β». Marco Bertucci Zoccali, MD book an appointment online Β». Beatrice Dionigi, MD book an appointment online Β». Joseph Riad, MD book an appointment online Β». The Anal Fistula Center is at the forefront of research in the field. We organize and participate in numerous trials to improve standards of care.
