What is Fissure ?

"Fissure treatment" typically refers to the management of an anal fissure, which is a small tear in the lining of the anus. It can cause pain, bleeding during bowel movements, and sometimes spasms of the anal sphincter. Treatment depends on whether the fissure is acute (recent) or chronic (lasting more than 6 weeks).

Conservative/Home Treatments (for Acute Fissures):

Dietary changes:
  • High-fiber diet (fruits, vegetables, whole grains)
  • Adequate fluid intake (6–8 glasses of water/day)

Stool softeners or fiber supplements:

  • Psyllium (e.g., Metamucil)
  • Docusate sodium

Sitz baths:

  • Soaking the anal area in warm water for 10–15 minutes, 2–3 times daily

Topical treatments:

  • Lidocaine gel for pain relief
  • Nitroglycerin ointment or nifedipine/diltiazem cream to relax the sphincter and increase blood flow

Medical/Surgical Treatments (for Chronic or Non-Healing Fissures):

Botulinum toxin (Botox) injections:

  • Temporarily paralyzes the sphincter to allow healing

Prescription topical vasodilators:

  • 0.2–0.4% nitroglycerin or 2% diltiazem

Lateral internal sphincterotomy (LIS):

  • A minor surgery where a portion of the internal anal sphincter is cut to reduce spasm and allow healing; very effective but carries a small risk of incontinence

Would you like help identifying which option might be best for your specific situation or symptoms?