Anal fissures may be small in size, but they often bring along big discomfort. That stinging, sharp pain you feel while passing stools or the sudden sight of blood can be alarming and distressing. If you’ve experienced this, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to suffer in silence. Hi, I’m Dr. V. Preethi, a General and Laparoscopic Surgeon at Hayagriva Hospital in Chennai, and I specialize in treating conditions like anal fissures with care that is both clinical and compassionate.
As a surgeon, I understand that anal fissures are not only physically painful but also emotionally draining. Many patients delay seeking help due to fear or embarrassment. But let me reassure you—this is a common condition, and I approach it with utmost empathy and discretion. Whether you're dealing with your first episode or struggling with a recurring fissure, my focus is on helping you heal quickly, safely, and confidently. From your first visit to complete recovery, I’ll be by your side—offering guidance, clarity, and compassionate care throughout every stage of your healing journey.
An anal fissure is a small tear or cut in the delicate lining of the anal canal, typically caused by passing hard stools, chronic constipation, or straining during bowel movements. While it may look insignificant, the pain it causes can be intense and persistent—especially during or after using the toilet. Many patients describe it as a sharp, burning sensation that can last for hours, making everyday life uncomfortable.
If left untreated, acute fissures can become chronic, forming deeper tears and even causing spasms in the surrounding muscle (anal sphincter), which further impedes healing. When a fissure becomes chronic, the body may respond by forming protective scar tissue or developing a small skin flap near the tear, often referred to as a sentinel tag. Thankfully, with the right medical intervention, fissures are highly treatable—often without surgery in the early stages. But if conservative measures fail, advanced options like laser surgery offer lasting relief with minimal downtime.
The symptoms of an anal fissure are often unmistakable and can have a significant impact on your daily life. Most often felt as a sharp, stinging pain during or after passing stool. This pain may persist long after you've finished, causing discomfort that interferes with work, sleep, or social activities. You may also notice fresh blood on the toilet paper or in the stool, which can be frightening if you’ve never experienced it before.
Apart from pain and bleeding, patients often report a visible crack or sore near the anus, itching, or irritation. Chronic fissures can cause a tight sensation due to muscle spasm, which prevents natural healing. Ignoring these symptoms not only prolongs discomfort but increases the risk of complications. The sooner you consult, the easier the recovery process can be.
In many cases, anal fissures respond well to non-surgical treatment like dietary changes, topical ointments, sitz baths, and stool softeners. However, when the fissure becomes chronic—lasting more than six weeks—or fails to heal despite all efforts, surgical treatment becomes necessary. The aim of surgery is to reduce muscle tension, promote blood flow, and allow the tear to heal fully.
One of the most effective surgical treatments is Lateral Internal Sphincterotomy (LIS), where a small portion of the anal sphincter muscle is carefully released to reduce spasm and pain. I also offer Laser Fissure Surgery, which is a newer, minimally invasive method involving focused laser energy to treat the affected area. Both methods are safe, have high success rates, and allow for faster recovery with minimal discomfort.
When you come to see me, the first step is to truly understand what you’re going through. I start with a gentle and thorough examination to confirm the diagnosis and assess whether your fissure is acute or chronic. Then, based on your condition and lifestyle, we choose the most effective treatment—whether that’s medical management or a minimally invasive surgical option.
I always try conservative methods first if they’re appropriate, and only recommend surgery when it’s clearly the better option. If surgery is needed, I prefer using modern laser or sphincter-sparing techniques to minimize post-op pain and speed up recovery. Most procedures can be done as day-care surgeries, meaning you go home the same day and resume normal activities much sooner than you might expect.
Choosing the right surgeon for anal fissure treatment is about more than just skill—it’s about trust, compassion, and communication. As a female General and Laparoscopic Surgeon with years of experience treating proctology conditions, I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where you can feel at ease discussing your symptoms. Many patients tell me how relieved they feel just after the first consultation.
With advanced training in minimally invasive and laser surgery, I focus on providing precise, effective treatment while preserving your natural function and comfort. You won’t just get surgery—you’ll get a well-rounded, patient-first experience that’s tailored to your needs, goals, and preferences.
Anal fissures may feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face them alone. If you're struggling with persistent pain, bleeding, or discomfort, take the first step by scheduling a consultation. Together, we’ll explore your symptoms, discuss treatment options, and make a clear, confident plan to restore your health.
Remember—early treatment means easier recovery. Let’s get you back to living pain-free and confidently.
Your healing begins here—book your appointment today and let’s take the next step toward complete relief.
Have questions or need to schedule a consultation? I’m here to help. Whether you're exploring treatment options or ready to take the next step in your surgical journey, reach out today. Your health is personal — so is our care.
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