Anal Fistula Treatment in Los Angeles
Expert, sphincter-preserving anal fistula care with Dr. Moshe Barnajian in Los Angeles.
Healing a Fistula the Right Way
An anal fistula is a small tunnel that develops between the inside of the anal canal and the skin nearby, usually after an infection or abscess. It tends to cause ongoing drainage, discomfort, and irritation that will not resolve on its own.
Fistulas demand expert care because the tract runs close to the muscles that control continence. Dr. Barnajian uses sphincter-preserving techniques that heal the anal fistula while protecting long-term bowel control.
His Los Angeles practice handles both straightforward and complex cases, including fistulas that have recurred after previous surgery.
Simple and Complex Fistulas
How a fistula relates to the sphincter muscle determines the safest, most effective treatment.
Simple
Involves little or no sphincter muscle and can often be treated with a straightforward, high-success procedure.
Complex
Crosses more of the muscle or has multiple tracts, requiring advanced, muscle-sparing techniques.
Recurrent
Fistulas that return after prior surgery benefit from an experienced surgeon and a carefully staged plan.
Symptoms and Causes
Typical symptoms include persistent drainage of pus or blood near the anus, pain and swelling, skin irritation, and recurrent abscesses, sometimes with a small visible opening in the skin.
Most fistulas develop after an anal abscess fails to heal completely; conditions such as Crohn’s disease can also cause them. Because a fistula will not close on its own, timely expert treatment is important.
Anal Fistula Treatment Options
Dr. Barnajian selects the technique that offers the best chance of healing while protecting the sphincter and your continence.
Fistulotomy
For simple fistulas, opening the tract allows it to heal from the inside out with a very high success rate.
Seton Placement
A soft drain helps complex fistulas heal gradually and safely while protecting muscle function.
LIFT Procedure
A sphincter-sparing technique that closes the tract at its source, ideal for fistulas crossing the muscle.
Advancement Flap
Healthy tissue closes the internal opening, preserving continence in complex cases.
Crohn’s Fistula Care
When inflammatory bowel disease is involved, treatment is coordinated with your gastroenterologist.
What Your Visit Looks Like
Your visit is private and focused on healing. Dr. Barnajian examines the area, maps the tract, and explains the safest path to a durable cure.
Before your appointment
Note any prior abscesses or surgeries and continue your normal medications unless told otherwise.
During your visit
Evaluation is straightforward; imaging is occasionally used to map complex tracts before treatment.
After your care
You will receive clear aftercare instructions and close follow-up to ensure complete, lasting healing.
Same-week appointments available
Why Patients Choose Dr. Barnajian
Dr. Moshe Barnajian is a Cedars-Sinai-trained, board-certified colorectal surgeon (FASCRS) experienced in the full range of fistula techniques, including complex and recurrent cases.
His office offers prompt appointments, most PPO insurance accepted with benefits verified in advance, and discreet, compassionate care. Call (424) 622-9028 to schedule.
Anal Fistula Care Across Los Angeles
Dr. Barnajian treats fistulas for patients from Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Culver City, and throughout Los Angeles, with prompt, discreet appointments and most PPO insurance accepted.
For trusted information on anal fistula and colorectal health, visit the American Society of Colon & Rectal Surgeons, or explore all of Dr. Barnajian's colorectal services.
Anal Fistula FAQs
Will an anal fistula heal on its own?
No. A fistula is an established tract that will not close without treatment and tends to cause recurrent infections. Expert surgical care is the reliable path to healing.
Will treatment affect my continence?
Dr. Barnajian specializes in sphincter-sparing techniques chosen specifically to protect bowel control while curing the fistula.
When should I see a specialist about anal fistula?
You should be evaluated if symptoms persist, worsen, or affect daily life. Early evaluation of anal fistula usually means simpler, more effective treatment. Call (424) 622-9028 to be seen this week.
How is anal fistula treated?
Treatment is individualized, from conservative care to minimally invasive surgery. Dr. Barnajian explains every option and recommends the least invasive approach that will resolve your symptoms.
Do you accept insurance?
Yes. Most PPO plans are accepted and our team verifies your benefits before your visit. Call (424) 622-9028 to confirm coverage.
Get Expert Anal Fistula Care in Los Angeles
Sphincter-sparing, lasting treatment from an experienced colorectal surgeon. Same-week appointments available.