How soon can I return to work after an anal fistula surgery?

How Long After Anal Fistula Surgery Can You Return to Work?

The duration before returning to work after anal fistula surgery depends on the patient's physical recovery and the nature of their work. If the patient has good physical fitness and recovers quickly after surgery, they can generally return to work within 1-2 weeks. However, if the patient has poor physical fitness and a slower recovery, it may take 3-4 weeks before they can resume work.

Anal fistula, short for anal-rectal fistula, is a sequela of ruptured perianal abscesses or incision drainage. Anal fistula surgery primarily involves incision or excision of the fistula tract to fully expose the wound surface, ensuring smooth drainage to facilitate wound healing. Common surgical methods include thread-drawing therapy and anal fistula incision.

Due to individual differences in physical constitution, recovery time after surgery varies. If the patient has good physical fitness, experiences no significant discomfort after surgery, and takes medications such as Amoxicillin Capsules and Cefixime Tablets under medical supervision to prevent infection, full recovery can be expected within 1-2 weeks, allowing them to return to work normally. However, if the patient has poor physical fitness and experiences local pain, redness, or swelling after surgery, they may need to extend their rest period, typically requiring 3-4 weeks before returning to work.

It is recommended that patients maintain good lifestyle habits, avoiding late nights and overexertion. Additionally, they should adhere to a light diet, avoiding spicy and stimulating foods.