Laser Fissurectomy
What is Laser Fissurectomy? Laser fissurectomy removes the hardened, scarred edges of a long-standing anal fissure, along with any sentinel skin tag or enlarged anal papilla, and converts it into a clean wound that can heal. Typical duration at Iswarya Hospital, OMR Chennai: 15–20 mins. Recovery: 2–3 weeks.
Unlike sphincterotomy, no muscle is cut, so it is preferred for patients with low sphincter tone, women after childbirth, and anyone at higher risk of incontinence. It is often combined with an injection to relax the sphincter. The laser gives precise tissue removal with minimal bleeding.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Durai Ravi, Senior Consultant – General, Advanced Laparoscopic, Laser & Robotic Surgeon · Updated 9 October 2026
How is Laser Fissurectomy performed?
- 1
Short general or spinal anaesthesia is given.
- 2
The anal canal is examined and the fissure edges and any skin tag identified.
- 3
The fibrotic edges of the fissure are removed with the laser fibre.
- 4
The base of the fissure is gently ablated to stimulate fresh healing tissue.
- 5
Botulinum toxin may be injected into the sphincter to ease spasm if tone is high.
- 6
A dressing is applied; no stitches are needed.
What are the benefits of Laser Fissurectomy?
- ✓No sphincter muscle is divided, so no risk to continence
- ✓Removes scar tissue that prevents healing
- ✓Suitable for patients with weak sphincter tone or after childbirth
- ✓Minimal bleeding with laser precision
- ✓Day-care procedure
How do you prepare for Laser Fissurectomy?
- Examination confirms a chronic fissure; anal tone is assessed to choose the right operation.
- Fast for 6 hours before the procedure.
- A small enema may be given in the morning.
- Continue stool softeners up to surgery.
- Stop blood thinners as instructed.
What are the risks and side effects of Laser Fissurectomy?
- Slower healing than sphincterotomy, typically 3–6 weeks
- Recurrence if constipation persists
- Post-operative pain for the first week
- Minor bleeding from the wound
- Temporary weakness from botulinum toxin if used
Your surgeon will discuss all risks with you before the procedure and take appropriate precautions to minimise them.
What is recovery like after Laser Fissurectomy?
- Warm sitz baths two or three times a day and after each bowel motion.
- High-fibre diet, plenty of fluids and a stool softener for at least 6 weeks.
- Apply the prescribed healing ointment to the wound twice daily.
- Simple painkillers; avoid codeine which causes constipation.
- Review at 2 and 6 weeks to check healing.
Frequently asked questions about Laser Fissurectomy
How is fissurectomy different from sphincterotomy?
Sphincterotomy cuts a small part of the internal sphincter muscle to relieve spasm. Fissurectomy removes only the scarred fissure edges and leaves the muscle intact, so it is chosen when preserving sphincter strength matters most.
Who is a good candidate for fissurectomy?
Patients with a chronic fissure and normal or low sphincter tone, women who have had vaginal deliveries, older patients, and anyone with previous anal surgery.
How long does healing take?
The fresh wound usually heals over 3–6 weeks. Pain settles well before that, typically within the first week.
Where can you get Laser Fissurectomy in Chennai?
Iswarya Hospital's General & Laparoscopic Surgery department performs a wide range of procedures using minimally invasive (keyhole) techniques for faster recovery, less pain, and shorter hospital stays — including hernia repair, gallbladder removal, appendectomy, and piles/fistula surgery.
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ℹ️ This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual treatment plans may vary. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any medical decisions.